• Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Program

    GATE Exposition

    Lea Cantu..........GATE Resource Teacher 

    (661)721-5000 ext. 00109

    Gifted and Talented Education Program

    One of the many programs available to support students in the Delano Union School District is the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program.  The GATE program is designed to serve students who are achieving above and beyond grade level expectations.  The goal of the GATE program is to challenge and motivate students to achieve at the highest levels of their abilities.  

    GATE program placement formally begins in the 3rd grade and continues through 8th grade.  Students are served through a variety of curricular and extracurricular opportunities.          

    Student Eligibility  

    There are several methods in which a student can qualify for the GATE program. Teachers and parents may refer students for GATE testing.  These students will be assessed using the TONI-4, a nonverbal measurement of ability.  A rubric which considers TONI-4 scores, state assessment scores and GPA or benchmark scores (depending upon grade level) will be used to determine GATE eligibility.  Additional consideration is given to individuals with strong teacher recommendations, disabilities, or previous GATE identification in another district.  Economically disadvantaged students, members of under-represented groups, and underachieving students by CART evaluations receive further consideration as well.           

    GATE testing typically occurs in the spring for GATE placement the following school year. Students in the 2nd through 7th grades can be referred for GATE testing.  GATE referral forms, including the signed parental permission slip, should be completed during the First Trimester Conferences in September/October/November.

    The referral deadline for GATE testing is February 6, 2023.        

    Academic Services  

    Elementary and 6th grade students receive differentiated instruction in the classroom as well as interventions when appropriate.   Students in 7th and 8th grade are grouped together according to subject and ability.  Classroom teachers differentiate the curriculum to meet individual student needs.

    After-School

    The GATE program offers an after-school program focusing on GATE Festival preparation.  Teachers serving as GATE Festival Facilitators guide students through project selection and application of the dimensions of depth and complexity (key GATE concepts) to their projects.

    GATE Festival

    The GATE Festival gives students the opportunity to share and showcase their interests and talents with family and community members. The 2022-2023 GATE Festival will be held on March 30, 2023.

    GATE Summer Academy

    The GATE Summer Academy is a one week program for 3rd-7th grade GATE students that focuses on enrichment.  Students participate in engaging and challenging hands-on simulations and activities.  The GATE Summer Academy is typically held during the first week of summer break.  

    Parent Advisory Committee

    The GATE program has an active Parent Advisory Committee (PAC). The role of the Parent Advisory Committee is to support the needs of GATE students.

    The 2022-2023 GATE PAC meetings are scheduled for:  

    October 4, 2022 - 6:00 p.m. - Zoom meeting

    March 21, 2023 - 6:00 p.m. - location TBD

    • For More Information

      If you would like further information about the GATE program, please contact Lea Cantu (661) 721-5000 extension 00109.