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District outlines GATE identification, universal NNAT3 screening and point-based qualification
Summary
Dr. Tracy Camellia presented Lawndale's approach to identifying students for the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program: universal NNAT3 screening (third grade), a multi-point qualification system that includes achievement and teacher recommendation, and opt-out provisions for families.
Dr. Tracy Camellia, assistant superintendent, provided a history and a district plan for the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program and explained how students will be identified and served. "We intentionally chose this test to support our students who are learning English," Dr. Camellia said of the NNAT3 (Naglieri) universal screener the district will administer.
Dr. Camellia described a multi-criteria point system for qualification: the universal NNAT3 screener, consecutive high achievement on state tests (SBAC/CAST) and teacher recommendations or other indicators may be combined so that students who accumulate three points qualify for GATE services. She said any third grader will be given the NNAT3 in the spring, and parents may opt out of the screener.
District staff noted adjustments from prior practice: earlier tests required English proficiency and underidentified English learners; the new nonverbal Naglieri screener aims to better capture those students. The district reported an increase in identified students after the change: "Now we're at about 46 students, which is an increase. Last year, we had about a 15," Dr. Camellia said when summarizing recent results.
Families asked about timing, requalification and middle-school services. Dr. Camellia said identified students do not need to retest each year to remain in the program and that middle schools typically offer enrichment and open opportunities (for example, math club) that are available to all students; some offerings are not labeled "GATE" but provide comparable enrichment.
No new policy or district-wide resource commitment was adopted at the meeting; staff said they will return to a future meeting to present services and next steps.
