GATE and SAS

 

Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)

 

Goal

To identify Gifted and Talented students, including those from diverse racial, socioeconomic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds, and provide high-quality differentiated opportunities for learning that meet students' unique abilities and talents.
 

Philosophy

The philosophy of Gifted/Talented Programs is integrally connected to the District’s mission for all students:

-All students are to receive an education appropriate to their individual capabilities, interests, and needs.

-Students must have learning opportunities that help develop their abilities to the highest level.

-Gifted and talented students are atypical learners who require specialized learning experiences beyond the regular curriculum to ensure success.

 

Identification

LAUSD Board of Education has adopted a plan for Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), which includes District policies and procedures for identifying gifted learners in seven categories: Intellectual Ability, High Achievement, Specific Academic Ability, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Creative Ability, and Leadership Ability. The District’s policies and procedures for gifted/talented identification are in accordance with California State requirements.

 

Program Options

Programs are offered to students who require an environment which encourages extremely high levels of abstract thinking, motivation, interest, achievement, peer interaction, and a radically accelerated pace of learning. Acceptance is based on eligibility criteria, availability of space, and any specific conditions unique to the school. The following lists the program opportunities: Resident School GATE Program, Schools for Advanced Studies, Magnet Programs, Honors and Advanced Placement classes, and the Conservatory of Fine Arts. 

 

Differentiation

Teachers of gifted/talented students differentiate the core curriculum through various means, including flexible groupings, acceleration of content, independent study, tiered assignments, interest centers, learning centers, compacting in student’s area of strength, mentorships, adjusting questions, honors and advanced placement courses, and use of above grade-level resources. A local school program must comply with a more rigorous standard providing differentiation, rather than “One-Size-Fits-All” instruction as an integral part of the regular school day.