Parent and Community Involvement
Parents are involved in every aspect of the GATE program. Parents are invited to a GATE meeting each year, where information about the characteristics and unique needs of gifted students, our program and identification criteria is disseminated. Parents are also informed of the district's criteria and procedures for identifying students through an annual letter sent home. Once a child's eligibility is determined, parents receive a copy of the state application and program narrative. The application and program description is also available upon request in the district office and on the school website.
A GATE Advisory Committee is comprised of the GATE coordinator, the superintendent/principal, teachers and parents. The advisory committee meets several times throughout the year to monitor and evaluate the program and to discuss curriculum, instruction, professional development, and parent education. The GATE Advisory Committee assists in the development of the state application. The application, program description, and budget are reviewed by the School Site Council prior to submission to the Board of Trustees for approval.
During the 2005-06 school year, all Cold Spring parents were invited to a workshop featuring author and gifted education specialist, Susan Winebrenner,. Mrs. Winebrenner presented information and strategies for parents to support and enrich their children's learning at home and at school. Parents are apprised of local events regarding GATE, and encouraged to attend.
