Submitted by Connie Lorentzen, Mar 3, 2008 13:05

Unfortunately, it seems, there is an increase in educarats across the nation who don't seem to really care if they foster resentment. Decisons on gifted or advanced placement programs, as they are now often called, seem to be, at times, based on many things rather than current sound research; available from the U of Conn.. To often, policy and proceedures appear to be developed to meet measurable criteria for political reasons; irregardless of the long term damage done to some students or the community. [Thank you Richard for all your work in GT education.]

On the issue of the Twice Exceptional Learner, FCPS has, since January 05 focused on this issue. Due to a Fairfax County Council of PTAs Twice Exceptional Resolution, http://www.fccpta.org/positions/resolutions/twice_exceptional_gt_ld_students.htm; in which, parents requested a Task Force to review and revise the current services for the Twice Exceptional learner. Special Education and Instuctional Services staff have worked together to increase awareness; by offering a number of professional development opportunities, and providing a 2e liaision in each school, including middle and high schools among other things. The district is, I believe, among the few in the nation to Focus on this important issue in gifted education. Although there is more to be done, I see substantial and sustainable progress on this issue .

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