The gifted program, formerly known as Dimensions, was developed following an intensive two-year program evaluation.  From this process, there were several recommendations that emerged.   They included the areas of identification, program delivery, professional development, and communication. These recommendations began being phased in during Fall 2005.

The G.A.T.E. program is expanding its delivery of services to include students with gifts and talents in the areas of language arts, math, leadership, kinesthetic, and fine arts. Students are formally identified in the areas of language arts and math.  In the coming years, identification tools will be used to aid in the identification of leadership, kinesthetic, and fine arts. Once identification in these areas is determined, gifted and talented services will be provided.

Identification
Initially in Fall 2005, all students in grades 3 through 5 were screened. Since that time, we have screened all students during second grade and other students as needed based on their performance in school. Students who demonstrate superior aptitude in one or more areas are further assessed after the initial screening.  Those students who meet the selection criteria are invited to participate in the G.A.T.E. program.

Program Delivery
Students receive gifted and talented services though a continuum of services.  These services may include: curriculum compacting, modification, tiered assignments, clustering for instruction, flexible grouping, individualized/specialized enrichment, curriculum extensions, learning centers, mentorship, summer school, after school or extended day opportunities, subject or grade acceleration.

Direct services may be provided from the classroom teacher, Learning Coach, or a member of the Library Media Center team. Scheduling and services will be determined for each student by each school ’s Enrichment Team.

Professional Development
All teachers working with gifted and talented students have access to training in the areas of gifted and differentiation strategies.

Communication
Communication regarding the G.A.T.E. program takes place through classroom teachers, Learning Coaches, Principals, and the Director of Learning. Communication also includes newsletters, phone calls, information posted on the District website, and informational meetings.