Gifted and Talented Education: (GATE)
Opening Doors and Developing Potential
(Informative brochure - printable PDF file)

Identification
This process is multi-dimensional and on-going. Screening instruments include standardized and non-standardized tests, achievement tests, students grades, teacher / staff and parent nominations, and observations as well as student-created products.

Programming
The GATE program is integrated into regular education and provides opportunities for gifted students to receive 'qualitatively' different education experiences as deemed necessary such as:

• Differentiated Instruction in the Classroom
• Enrichment
• Acceleration
• Independent Study
• Mentorship
• On-line Courses
• GATE Pullout
• Advanced Classes
• Individualized Learning Plans

Program Goals
Goals of the G/T program shall be to:  actively involve students, parents, administration, educational staff, and community in planning, implementing, and evaluating a gifted program.

Involvement
As we continually strive to meet the needs of our high potential students, valuable insight is gained as we actively engage the following:

School Board ~ employ the G/T Coordinator, approve the G/T plan, allocate funds for adequate staff materials, and assist in publicizing the district's G/T program.

Administration ~ assist in the development and implementation of the G/T program, approve differentiated plans, evaluate the GATE plan, provide input to the G/T Coordinator, the Advisory Committee, and assist in publicizing the G/T program.

Teachers and Staff ~ attend inservice sessions to gain knowledge regarding giftedness, recognize characteristics of the G/T and nominate potential candidates, be sensitive to the unique needs of these students as well as provide appropriate educational opportunities for them.

G/T Coordinator ~ assist administration in planning and implementing G/T program; identify long- and short-term goals and evaluation of the program; collect and record data for identifying students; assist staff in developing appropriate materials for G/T and transitioning from elementary to middle school and high school; attend training sessions for latest G/T developments; and assist in budgetary and reporting aspects of the program.

Parents ~ understand the program purpose, identification process and programming choices, participate in the identification / screening process, serve in advisory capacity, and participate as volunteers, mentors, and resources for the G/T program.

Students ~ actively participate in the G/T program plan and provide feedback as to its relevance for his / her learning experience.

Advisory Committee ~ assist in development of district G/T definition and philosophy, assist in the identification of available resources, meet regularly to review and evaluate the district's G/T program, assist in publicizing the G/T program, and advise and support the G/T coordinator and program as needed.

Community ~ strive to be informed about the G/T program, offer resources and support where appropriate.

Five Areas of Giftedness
The School District of Shell Lake is committed to the development of each student's social, emotional, and intellectual potential, therefore, students shall be provided with opportunities to be educated in a manner in which their talents may be expanded and developed. 

It is believed G/T students learn differently.  The District will provide for these differences through differentiated programs and procedures appropriate to the needs of our students:

G/T students shall be defined as those students who excel or have the potential to excel in one or more of the following areas:

• General Intellectual Ability
• Specific Academic Ability,
• Creative Thinking,
• Visual or Performing Arts, and
• Leadership