CAPISTRANO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Each CUSD Elementary School provides cluster classes for GATE identified students in grades 4 and 5.  GATE cluster classrooms include a small group of GATE students within a mixed ability general education classroom.  This model allows the classroom teacher to more effectively differentiate instruction.  It also provides opportunities for these students to interact with both their intellectual and same age peers.

 

Teachers of gifted learners are provided with professional learning opportunities specific to meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of gifted and advanced learners.  Teachers of GATE students assess each student’s skill level and make adjustments to instruction and curriculum to meet individual needs.  Students participating in GATE cluster groups receive differentiated instructional opportunities.  Differentiated instruction is provided within the school day and in the general education classroom through the use of flexible groupings, supplemental materials, and varied learning activities.  Differentiation is not accomplished by assigning GATE students more homework or special at-home projects.

Middle school students who are identified as GATE will be placed in courses with accelerated language arts and social science content along with other GATE-identified students.  All 6-8th-grade students may also be placed in an accelerated mathematics class if they meet the District’s placement criteria.  For the specific criteria for accelerated/GATE 6-8th-grade courses, please contact your child's counselor at his/her middle school.