Posting Date: July, 2004 Participation in
Academic Program for the Exceptional (APEX)
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2004-2005 Student-Parent Handbook

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PARTICIPATION IN
ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL (APEX)

State of Tennessee Criteria for Participation
in Programs for Intellectually Gifted

Student Referral


APEX (Academic Program for the Exceptional) is a special education program for students meeting the criteria established by the state of Tennessee for identification of intellectually gifted students. The program provided for identified students in grades three through six is a "pullout" program designed to emphasize critical and creative thinking; research and study skills; problem-solving; communication skills; leadership skills; and development of students as self-motivated, lifelong learners. APEX students apply these processes in the development of quality projects within a curriculum rich in academic content. Beginning with grade seven, students may participate in enriched classes and seminars if appropriate.

State of Tennessee Criteria for Participation in Programs for the Intellectually Gifted
The State of Tennessee Criteria for Programs for the Intellectually Gifted is as follows (www.state.tn.us/education/msped.htm) :
  1. A child is assessed through a multi-modal identification process, wherein no singular mechanism, criteria or cut-off score is used for determination of eligibility. Areas assessed and evaluated for eligibility determination include:

    1. academic performance
    2. creative thinking
    3. academic achievement
    4. cognitive/intellectual ability

  2. Eligibility for an individual child is based on analysis of this information. The screening and comprehensive assessment data results must meet specific eligibility standards based on multiple criteria and multiple assessment measures.


Student Referral
The District does not discriminate in evaluation or programming on the basis of race, disability, color, gender, or national origin. Parents, teachers, or administrators may refer students to be screened for APEX. Parents requesting screening should contact the school principal for a review of student data or other program information. Parents may request information regarding referrals for screening from the school administration or the Director of Special Education.