Gifted and Talented Education, otherwise known as the GATE program, provides differentiated learning opportunities to students who are identified as having characteristics and/or potential for showing high performance in one or more areas.

GATE Program Funding
GATE program funding is included in the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), authorized by the 2013-14 Budget Act, in place of most previously existing K-12 state funding streams. Funding for this program is determined at the state level. 

How do I know if my child is Gifted?
According to the California Association for the Gifted, “Compared to their age peers, gifted children usually learn at a faster pace, use a large vocabulary, ask many questions, and need activities that are complex and challenging. They may also be highly sensitive, creative, and intense. These are only some of the characteristics of a gifted child.”

How are students at FMSD identified as GATE?
Franklin-McKinley School District’s GATE identification process includes testing students all students in third grade in the fall, during the school day, using the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Additionally, students new to FMSD in grades 4th-7th will also be tested. Parents also have the right to opt-out their student for testing.

What happens after testing?
Test scores take a few weeks to be processed before being sent home in the mail. A copy of the test score will be put in each students cumulative folder. Principals may look over the test scores and determine which class each student will be placed in.

What services do GATE students receive?
Students identified for the Gifted and Talented Education Program (GATE) will receive differentiated instruction to meet their needs.  Students will also have the opportunity to participate in after school enrichment classes.

GATE Resources
GATE Student and Parent Resources

If you prefer that your 3rd-grader not be tested for GATE, please file an opt-out form.