MIDDLE SCHOOL MAGNET MODEL

The Magnet model meets the needs of gifted students in 6th through 8th grades. Qualified students are invited to apply for admission. Admitted students may enter in 6th or 7th grade and will be enrolled in clustered core classes with gifted and talented peers. The differentiated 21st learning curriculum is designed to be accelerated and enriched to provide authentic learning experiences. The Magnet model is designed for gifted students who are highly-motivated, self-regulated learners who meet high academic standards and expectations in all four core content areas.

• There are currently four Magnet Schools: Clayton MS, Herz MS, Sky Ranch MS, and Swope MS.
• Transportation is NOT provided for students attending a Magnet Middle School outside of their zoned area.
• The curriculum for the Magnet model is at an accelerated instructional pace. This service is appropriate for students who can work independently and are achieving at high academic levels in all four core content areas and are in need of increased challenge.
• Magnet students will also participate in several PBL’s as part of their enrollment in the Magnet Program Model.
• Completion of this program will prepare students for advanced coursework in high school with students prepared to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in their freshman or sophomore year.
• For more information, view our Magnet FAQ Page

Magnet applications for new students are due every year in December. Those received after the deadline will be added to a waitlist and students will be added on a space available basis. In order to ensure the program is a good fit for all students, relevant information will be reviewed (e.g., achievement test scores) for each applicant. Not all GT-eligible students who apply will necessarily be accepted. A final decision will be made based on the student's history of available data. In cases where a student is not accepted, a written rationale will be available to parents upon request.  Applications will be processed in the order received and sites will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, see our Program Applications page.

MIDDLE SCHOOL GIFTED EDUCATION MODEL OF SUPPORT (GEMS) MODEL

The GATE GEMS model provides identified GATE students the opportunity to engage with rigorous curriculum in core content areas at their zoned school with a GATE endorsed site-based teacher. The curriculum is modified to be appropriate for gifted students and requires greater levels of complex order of thinking in collaboration with the Department of Gifted and Talented Education Programs.

MIDDLE SCHOOL COLLABORATIVE MODEL

The GATE Middle School Collaborative model provides the opportunity for middle school GATE students in 6th through 8th grades to work with GATE teachers in the general education classrooms. GATE teachers collaborate with classroom instructors to design lessons that align with the classroom curriculum while being appropriately accelerated for rigor and relevance for gifted students.

• Students remain in their general education classroom.
• GATE specialists work with teachers to plan units and lessons that meet the individualized needs of the gifted student.
• GATE specialists work directly with students to set goals for academic progress and success.
• Specialists will work with the general education teachers to assure that all gifted students receive an appropriately challenging curriculum, preparing them for honors coursework and Advanced Placement (AP) courses upon their matriculation to high school.