The philosophy of the San Marcos Unified School District’s Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program is to provide a challenging education to all students identified as gifted and talented, and to build on their inherent strengths by developing critical thinking, creative ability, high level problem solving skills, and positive self-concepts to enhance personal and academic success.

The SMUSD GATE program modifies the core curriculum in content, process, and product to develop depth, complexity, and novelty to meet the needs of gifted students by exceeding state academic content standards. Differentiated curriculum is offered as an integral part of each day within the regular classroom. Teachers implement a variety of appropriate instructional models, techniques, and approaches based on current research and training in the teaching of the gifted.

Each school has a site GATE Coordinator that is responsible for identification and testing of students, working with teachers to provide materials for differentiation, disseminating information to staff and parents, and coordinating enrichment activities at the school. Together with the assistant principal, the coordinator continuously reviews and updates the program to ensure improvements and growth for all students.

Each site develops a plan that coincides with district philosophy, goals, and objectives. Programs may vary within the district, reflecting the needs and interests of the students, parents, and staff at each site.

The district GATE coordinator is responsible for ensuring that each site program reflects the high standards outlined by state legislation and our district plan.

Goals for Gifted Students

Each student is expected to meet or exceed grade level standards in the core subjects, language arts and mathematics. In addition, GATE students should be encouraged and supported to demonstrate the following:

Skills

• Perform at or above grade level in the basic skill areas, including technology and research skills
• Use critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Develop strong communication skills
• Utilize strong organization, time management, and study skills.

Knowledge

• Apply skills and knowledge in area(s) of strength and expertise
• Become aware of and accept both areas of giftedness and areas of weakness
• Expand exploration in all the content areas
• Be prepared for advanced instruction at the secondary level

Attitudes

• Possess an enthusiasm for learning
• Display academic independence (self-directed, resourceful, and confident)
• Be willing to take risks
• Be tolerant of self and others
• Demonstrate leadership abilities, particularly in the area of personal expertise

LCM GATE coordinator is Susan Smith, 4th/5th grade teacher. She can be contacted at (760) 290-2121 or susan.smith@smusd.org, or you may contact Julie Stephens, our Assistant Principal at julie.stephens@smusd.org.

Please click here to visit the District GATE Page