Advanced Academics

Diana Dempsey, Advanced Academics Coach
diana.dempsey@apsva.us
703-228-6744

Office: A-130

Instagram: @wakefield_gifted

Advanced Academics & Talent Development News: I update this page throughout the year as well as posting to Instagram, the PTSA listserv, and Parent Square, when appropriate.

About Advanced Academics and Talent Development

Formerly known as the Office of Gifted Services, our name changed in August 2023 to the Office of Advanced Academics and Talent Development to better reflect the inclusive nature of the Talent Development Model Arlington Public Schools follows. The title is a better reflection of what we’ve done for years here in Arlington.

APS recognizes that certain learners within the school population have unique abilities, interests, needs, and potential for accomplishment. A variety of opportunities are available to gifted students through programs here at Wakefield and at the county and state level. For information regarding Gifted Services in Arlington Public Schools, please visit the APS Office of Advanced Academics and Talent Development web page located on the Arlington Public School website.

Students have the opportunity to participate in intensified, Dual Enrollment, and Advanced Placement classes to extend their learning beyond the basic curriculum at the high-school level. In addition, students may design their own courses through independent study, summer courses, and early college enrollment with local universities. A variety of summer experiences are also available to advanced high school students. Some of these opportunities are only available to students who have been identified for gifted services; however, most are open to all students in the system who wish to pursue further challenge.

Parents, teachers, other school staff, and community members can refer students to be evaluated for gifted services. Identification committees meet each spring to review students referred for services. More information on the identification process can be found on the APS Office of Advanced Academics and Talent Development web page.