Quick Fact Sheet About the GATE Identification Process
- What is the GATE program?
- How are students identified?
- What is the GATE Identification Matrix?
- How are students identified to take the Naglieri Nonverbal Test?
- What is the NNAT Test?
- How long does the testing take?
- How often is the test given?
- How often can a student test?
- When will I receive my child's results?
- What is a qualifying score and what happens if my child qualifies for GATE?
- How do students participate in the GATE program?
- Who do I contact concerning GATE at the DISTRICT level?
What is the GATE program?
GATE stands for Gifted and Talented Education. In accordance with
EC 52200-52212, Title 5, Sec. 3820, Elk Grove Unified School
District provides a more challenging program for pupils who
demonstrate a capacity for excellence far beyond their
chronological peers. GATE funds are used to design and deliver a
supplemental, differentiated program for individuals or groups of
gifted and talented students with special needs.
How are students identified?
There are two ways a students can become GATE identified through
the district: 1. The GATE Identification Matrix and 2. The
Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test.
What is the GATE Identification Matrix?
Students will be evaluated for GATE recommentdation by meeting
the eligibility requirements in the following six categories:
California Standards Test (CST) Scores, previous NNAT Score,
Grade Point Average (GPA), Equity Factor, and Accelerated
Classroom Performance or Creative Ability/Leadership.
How are students identified to take the Naglieri Nonverbal Test?
A school site representative will complete an Identification
Matrix. If the student meets the NNAT eligibility requirements,
they may then be referred for testing. NNAT eligibility requires
student scores on California Standards Test (CST) be at the
advanced level in English Language Arts and Mathematics for one
year or at the advanced level in one of these subjects for two
years. Current scores must be considered and only test scores for
the last three years will be accepted.
What is the NNAT Test?
The Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT) is a brief, culture
fair, nonverbal measure of school ability. NNAT items were
developed to assess ability without requreing students to read,
write or speak, and instead require students to rely on reasoning
and problem solving abilities. It tests the skills of Pattern
Completion, Reasoning by Analogy, Serial Reasoning, and Spatial
Visualizaion.
How long does the testing take?
Students have 30 minutes to complete the 38 item multiple choice
test. The total testing time is approximately 40 minutes.
How often is the test given?
The test is given three times per year on a Saturday morning in
the Robert L. Trigg Education Center Board Room to students in
grades 3 through 12. Applications are due to the Learning Support
Services office approx. two weeks prior to the testing date.
How often can a student test?
Each student can test one time per calendar year. If a student
tests in October, he/she must wait until the following October to
test again. Each student will be allowed to retest only one
time. Students can only test twice in their academic career.
When will I receive my child's results?
Results are mailed to your home 2 to 3 weeks following testing.
The school also receives the results of test.
What is a qualifying score and what happens if my child qualifies for GATE?
The test is scored in Stanines from 1 to 9. A score of 9
automatically identifies him/her as GATE. If your child qualifies
for GATE, they will be permanently identified as GATE with the
district and can participate in the GATE program at their school
site. A score of 8 earns 1 point toward the 4 point
Identification Matrix.
How do students participate in the GATE program?
Once a student has been GATE identified through the district, our
school offers the student the opportunity to participate in the
Adreani Accelerated Program. These classes meet once a week to
enrich the student's curriculum.
Who do I contact concerning GATE at the DISTRICT level?
Elk Grove Unified School District
Office of Learning Support Services
9510 Elk Grove-Florin Road
916-686-7712
Alicia Canning, Program Specialist