Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the GATE Program topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Modesto expands GATE cluster classrooms; Franklin pilot shows higher engagement and scores
Summary
The district reported expansion of its GATE program from regional sites to a cluster model at neighborhood schools. Franklin Elementary’s pilot—now serving nearly 30 GATE students across grades 3–4—showed improved attendance and benchmark scores and teachers reported non‑GATE students rising to higher expectations.
Modesto City Schools is expanding its GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) offerings by adding a cluster model at neighborhood schools as a complement to regional sites, district staff told the board Jan. 21.
Under the cluster model, high‑potential students are grouped within a regular classroom roster so families can keep students at their neighborhood site. District staff said enrollment in GATE programs nearly doubled after the expansion and that demographic participation is moving closer to district averages.
Franklin Elementary principal Catherine Mullins and teachers who piloted the program described classroom practices and early results: two GATE cluster classrooms (third and fourth grades), improved attendance, higher benchmark averages and positive behavior changes. Fourth‑grade teacher Emily Fernley said her class posted roughly 79% average on unit benchmarks since the cluster started, and third‑grade teacher Josefina Sanchez Perez described stronger student engagement and fewer behavior incidents among previously at‑risk students.
Trustees asked about measuring effects on non‑GATE students; staff said benchmark data show other students are also rising to the challenge and that coaches and targeted PD support teachers in differentiating instruction.
The board directed staff to continue expansion and to develop parent communication materials — including a video produced by the district IETS office — to explain program differences and help families make informed choices.
