Gifted Education
The middle school program for gifted education is designed to serve those students who demonstrate a specific academic aptitude. The program is provided primarily through advanced and accelerated courses offered in English, math, science, and social studies as well as through differentiated instruction within the classroom. The Lynchburg City Schools Local Plan for the Education of the Gifted provides detailed information on referral and identification processes, as well as the services provided for identified students. Eighth graders have the opportunity to accelerate their program of studies by taking high school credit courses in the areas of math, science, and foreign language. In some cases, severely gifted students have required an accelerated program of study which includes traveling to one of the high schools for courses. However, this type of service is rare and presents some logistical challenges. Students and their parents are encouraged to contact the school principal to learn more about all the gifted services available to middle school students and the opportunities they provide.
Special Education
Programs available for students with disabilities are provided according to the student’s Individualized Education Plan. Referrals for special services are routinely made by parents, counselors, and teachers through the school principal; however, a student can only be considered after authorization is secured from the parent or legal guardian. Placement in a special education class or program is contingent upon the results of extensive diagnostic testing and evaluation. Scheduling is done on an individual basis according to the needs of each student. Since the instructional program in all special education classes is based on each student’s individual needs, individual educational programs are developed by the school in conjunction with parental permission and input.
College Prep
We are excited that starting with the 2012-2013 school year, we will implement an eight period day, which will afford advanced students the opportunity to have four elective periods. One of these electives, which we are particularly excited about, is college prep. In this course, students will be assigned to a teacher for the entire year that will facilitate their pathways to career and college exploration. Each grade level team of College Prep teachers will develop units of studies to reflect the goal of the course. Possible topics will include, but are not limited to: novel discussion, public speaking, instructional project research and development (e. g. science fair, history day fair, etc.), exploration, and college search. The career exploration and college search components will follow a progressive model. In the sixth grade, students will explore personal interests, strengths, competencies, and accomplishments. Seventh grade students will apply their knowledge of their personal interests, strengths, abilities, and accomplishments to education planning and career decision-making. Eighth grade students can apply their knowledge of their personal interests, strengths, abilities, and accomplishments in the process of selecting high school courses, as well as, planning a post-secondary education program or career path.
Fort Hill Community School
The Fort Hill Community School (FHCS), a program for sixth and seventh grade students who have experienced behavioral difficulties in the regular school program, provides instruction in the four core content areas: English, math, science and social studies. Both direct instruction and computer-assisted learning models are used. Placement at the FHCS is made on an individual basis. For more information, contact the director for student services at (434) 515-5049.
Amelia Pride Center Eighth Grade Alternative Education Program
Eighth grade students may be referred to the Amelia Pride Center for any of the following reasons: excessive absences from school, continuous unacceptable behavior, excessive discipline referrals and/or suspensions, lack of academic success, parental request, or medical issues. Each student must be referred by the school principal, the Superintendent, or the School Board. The eighth grade program operates independently within the Amelia Pride Center. Students wear standard clothing consisting of a shirt and pants or skirt. The curriculum focuses on the Standards of Learning but also includes instruction in anger management, conflict resolution, and making a good impression. Students also have the opportunity to engage in service learning projects in the community.
