Gifted Programs

Elementary and Middle School
Each elementary school provides differentiated opportunities within the classroom to match the curriculum with the academic abilities of gifted students. Gifted Education Plan (GEP) goals foster academic, social, and emotional growth for each gifted learner. Each school has a gifted education coordinator who facilitates specialized educational opportunities that may include enrichment, extension of the curriculum, and acceleration.

High School 
Through selecting courses based on ability and interest, an individual plan of study is created for high school students. Each school also has a gifted education coordinator who facilitates monthly enrichment opportunities for students based on interest, as well as curricular areas of study. Summer Residential Governor’s School and Regional Governor’s School opportunities are available to students who apply and are selected.

A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School
The A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School is our region’s academic year Governor’s School and operates virtually. Students may attend by taking the courses that are offered online, without having to leave the high school where they are enrolled. Courses offered by the school are designed to be academically rigorous and offer college credit. Students apply for these courses during the scheduling process that takes place during the Spring semester. The A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School program is free to all Washington County Virginia Public Schools students who qualify.

Summer Residential Governor’s School
The Summer Residential Governor’s School application process begins in October. Students apply in October - December to attend a month-long summer programs in Humanities, STEM, Agriculture, Medicine, or Visual and Performing Arts. There are also a very limited number of mentorship opportunities available in marine biology and engineering. Students who are selected to attend these prestigious programs will attend free of charge. To apply, a student must be a rising junior or senior, must obtain and complete the forms available from the school’s gifted coordinator, and must comply with the deadlines and other application conditions. Visual and Performing Arts applicants must complete an application as well as an audition. This program is free to Washington County Virginia Public Schools students who qualify.

Summer Regional Governor’s Schools
These programs are open to rising Juniors and Seniors. The three week programs are free to students and are designed to parallel learning experiences that students will have in college. Application is made in April or May. These programs are free to Washington County Virginia Public Schools students who qualify.

  • University of Virginia's College at Wise: This is a residential program in Theater Arts.

  • Virginia Highlands Community College: This is a non-residential programs that vary in content from year to year.