Online Resources for Parents of GATE Students
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE)
The Lawndale Elementary School District recognizes the diverse needs of students at our schools. Our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program strives to meet the needs of gifted and talented students. Classroom instruction begins with grade level core curriculum. Teachers differentiate to support student need and ability. GATE-identified students will also have opportunities to participate in enrichment activities throughout the year.
LESD provides professional learning opportunities for teachers to support a variety of types of learners in our classrooms. The LESD GATE program currently serves students in grades 4 - 8.
GATE Identification Process
In October, students in grade 4 are provided with the opportunity to take the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) 8 online assessment of school readiness. The OLSAT AT is a nationally standardized, norm-referenced, group administered measure of verbal and non-verbal abilities. It is a multiple choice test.
If a student is in grades 5-8 and is new to Lawndale, their parent may request to have them take the exam. Please contact your student's teachers or counselor.
Students do not need to study any particular content before taking the assessment. The best way for students to prepare is to:
- Get a good night's sleep the night before taking the OLSAT-8
- Eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the test
- Listen carefully to the directions
- Try to do their best!
Parents will be notified of results in late November.
GATE PLan
The district's multi-year GATE Plan is available at the link below:
Online Resources for Students
Creativity
Chrome Music Lab allows students to explore rhythm, sound waves and more.
Students can create online comic strips and print/email to friends and family.
Math
Math Challenge is a website dedicated to the puzzling world of mathematics.
Youcubed tasks are a fun way for students to explore mathematical thinking.
Multidisciplinary
Khan Academy is a free resources of over 2,800 videos covering everything from arithmetic to physics.
Scholastic offers students the opportunity to read, play and connect.
Science
Ology is a website from the American Museum of Natural History - learn about biology, archaeology, anthropology, zoology and more!
The Exploratorium website offers a collection of online experiences to feed your curiosity.
Text Resources for Parents of Gifted Students
- NAGC Brochure - Helping Your Gifted Child Succeed! - English / Spanish
- The Gifted Kids' Survival Guide by Judy Galbraith and Jim Delisle
- Bringing Out the Best (A Guide for Parents of Young Gifted Children) by Jacqulyn Saunders and Pamela Espeland
- Helping Gifted Children Soar by Carol A. Strip and Gretchen Hirsch
- Guiding the Gifted Child (A Practical Source for Parents and Teachers) by James T. Webb, Elizabeth A. Meckstroth and Stephanie S. Tolan
