WCPS Advanced Programs
Who is eligible?
What does is mean to be identified as "gifted and talented" (GATE)?
In WCPS "GATE" describes a student who is identified through the multiple measures of ability/aptitude, performance, and potential as needing specialized curriculum to meet their unique learning and developmental needs. GATE services through specialized advanced curriculum options are provided in every school.
How does WCPS identify students for participation in GATE Programs?
WCPS aligns its GATE program identification processes with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) for Gifted & Talented Education (13A. 04. 07). The universal screening process begins in first grade and is ongoing.
What's Offered
Washington County Public Schools offers a spectrum of special focus programs for advanced-level learners, aligning with Maryland's Continuum of Services in Gifted and Talented Education. These programs are an integral component of WCPS initiatives to provide challenging academic experiences for the diverse student population across the county. For a details about the variety of programs at elementary, middle, and high school programs, click on each level in the dropdown menu or use the buttons below.
Advanced Programs include the following:
AP (Advanced Placement) - available to all students in every high school, course availability varies in each building, students can earn college credit with performance on the AP Exam, successful students meet some prerequisite criteria, such as specific reading level and/or coursework. Click for College Board website
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) - requires application, 4-year college readiness elective course series that is only offered in a few high schools. Click for AVID website
Early Talent Development (ETD) - instruction for all students in Pre-K through 2 classrooms, designed to foster gifted learning behaviors
Elementary GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) - available in all elementary schools, eligible students are identified by the Office of Advanced Programs for services starting in first grade NOTE: Ability scores are required
Honors - high school classes designed to prepare students for AP coursework, ability and/or performance measures are utilized for placement
IB (International Baccalaureate) Classes - available to all students who live in the attendance zone for North Hagerstown High School, the Magnet IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is also available to all students through a competitive application process
Merit - all students are reviewed for appropriate placement in these competitive middle school classes
WCPS Advanced Programs attract highly-able, highly-motivated, and identified gifted students.
Some programs are more competitive than others and placement in those programs is not guaranteed.
Some programs are based at a student's "home" school and others require a student to enroll in a new school.