SIGNET is a center-based program for students in grades four and five identified as gifted in Intellectual Ability and/or Specific Academic Ability. Students receive direct services geared for their strengths in both language and mathematics.  The Center’s curriculum is designed to extend, supplement, and enrich the county curriculum.  One of the strengths of this program lies in its responsiveness to student interest and abilities.  Another important aspect of the program is its emphasis on developing independent study skills and problem solving techniques.  Mr. Kevin Fahy is the SIGNET teacher for Ellis, Loch Lomond, and Mullen Elementary Schools.  He can be reached by email at fahykj@pwcs.edu or by phone at 703.365.0287.

The goals of the START program are to promote critical and creative thinking, problem solving skills, and independent learning skills. Students engage in cooperative group learning in START units. These units extend the grade level content in Math, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies as well as addressing thinking and learning skills. Identified students also receive enrichment and extension daily in the regular classroom during content instruction. Students in kindergarten through grade three receive services once each week in their base school. The time per class varies according to grade level from 45 to 90 minutes.  Mrs. Kelly Mulligan is the START teacher for Ellis Elementary School.  She can be reached by email at mulligkb@pwcs.edu or by phone at The Ellis Gifted Center on Thursdays at 703.365.0287.