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Gifted/Talented Programs » Instruction

Instruction

Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Instruction

Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is committed to helping every student thrive by providing rigorous, responsive, and inclusive learning experiences. Gifted/Talented Programs, Advanced Learning Options, empowers educators with research-based, differentiated instructional strategies that meet the unique needs of gifted, talented, and advanced learners – ensuring they are challenged, inspired, and supported to reach their full potential in every LAUSD school.

What might you see in a GATE classroom?

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How are gifted students clustered for instruction?

To support student access to a differentiated educational program, District policy requires all K–12 school sites to cluster identified gifted students in a well-defined way. Clustering is the intentional placement of a minimum number of identified gifted students per class (elementary level: five students; secondary level: 15 students). There are many ways to cluster gifted students effectively. The full-day cluster model, in which a class is composed of identified and verified gifted students, is the most common.

In addition to clustering identified gifted students, full-day GATE classes must include non-identified students who have been verified for GATE participation. This includes students who are high achieving, students who demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their primary language (including those who may be able-underachieving), and/or students who are currently being screened for identification. Schools must intentionally include gifted learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, as well as twice-exceptional (2e) students, to support equitable and inclusive practices.

Where can students access advanced learning opportunities?

Every K-12 LAUSD school – whether your neighborhood school or a specialized program – offers advanced learning opportunities designed to challenge and motivate students. GATE cluster classes are available districtwide and provide students with standards-based instruction that incorporates depth, complexity, novelty, and acceleration. In middle and high school, these classes are often designated as “honors” and allow students to dive deeper into content and move at a faster pace. In high school, Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer college-level academic challenges and the chance to earn college credit and placement. LAUSD proudly supports open access to AP courses, encouraging all interested students to participate. Reach out to your child’s school or Gifted/Talented Programs to learn more about the exciting advanced learning opportunities available at all grade levels.