Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs provide part-time and full-time services that support learning opportunities for exceptional students in grades K–8. Specially designed instruction is delivered to provide support and differentiation to students with learning differences as well as those identified as Exceptional Academic Learners. FBCS recognizes that each student learns differently and provides a limited range of supports and accommodations with a specific focus on advancement and growth for each student.

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Elementary Level K-5

 

At the elementary level, teachers begin to identify and nurture high-ability learners from all student populations. The goal in grades K–2 is to recognize students who may qualify as Exceptional Academic Learners by grade 3. All students in grades 2–4 take the CoGAT standardized test to assist in identifying students who would benefit from advanced academic services.  As part of our enrichment services, students will participate in advanced learning opportunities within the regular classroom setting through differentiated instruction. This approach allows us to tailor assignments, projects, and activities to meet his academic strengths and learning needs without removing him from the classroom environment.

 

These services are designed to nurture academic excellence and increase student achievement. It is recognized that Exceptional Academic Learners have unique abilities, values, needs, and talents. The program supports optimal development of students’ emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual capacities through:

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• Authentic learning opportunities that expand student interests

• Independent research

• Logic activities

• Engineering projects

• Creative writing

• Music and visual arts

• Interdisciplinary projects

• PBL (Project-Based Learning)

• Responses to literature

 

Students are assessed on the development of their cognitive skills, communication skills, research and independent study skills, attitudes and behaviors, and learning skills. Students must meet eligibility requirements in order to be considered for services. Enrollment is based on qualifying scores through CoGAT, academic performance, and characteristics observed through the Exceptional Academic Learner evaluation process.

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Middle School 6-8 Exceptional Academic Learners

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In middle school (grades 6–8), students identified as Exceptional Academic Learners continue to receive academic enrichment and advanced instruction to develop their potential further. These students are eligible to receive high school credit in the following areas:

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• Spanish I

• Algebra I

• Geometry

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Students are selected based on academic readiness, performance, and teacher recommendation. The goal is to prepare students for a rigorous high school curriculum while maintaining a Christ-centered approach to learning.

 

Strive Services 

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We offer part-time Strive Services to students in grades 2–5. These services include specialized teaching that helps students reach their full potential, inspires them, and equips them to be victorious in Christ. Our goal is to empower each student to use their God-given gifts and abilities.

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Strive Services include:

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• Pull-out and inclusive instruction during school hours

• Individualized teaching based on standardized testing

• One-on-one and small group sessions

• Collaboration with classroom teachers

• Academic intervention and support

• Consistent communication with parents