December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results GATE Identified Student Demographics: Program
Magnet (Elem)
Magnet (MS)
Cluster (Elem)
Cluster (MS)
Total GATE
Students
# of Students
220
219
264
201
904
FSUSD GATE Student Composi5on Cluster (MS) 22% Cluster (Elem) 29% Magnet (Elem) 25% Magnet (MS) 24% 1 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Respondents: All Respondents
All Elementary
All Middle School
Magnet (All)
Magnet (Elem)
Magnet (MS)
Cluster (All)
Cluster (Elem)
Cluster (MS)
# of Respondents
102
80
24
75
53
22
29
27
2
GATE Parent Survey: Respondents Composi5on Cluster (MS) 2% Cluster (Elem) 26% Magnet (Elem) 51% Magnet (MS) 21% 2 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Does the GATE program meet the needs of your child? Does the GATE program meet the needs of your child? 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Elementary Magnet: My son loves his class and we are very happy that we moved him to the magnet school. I think he is
challeged in a way that he wasn't before.
My children are challenged in class and are not bored.
The fast-paced learning style is much better suited to our son's needs. His teacher is more in tune with
his particular learning style, and encourages our son where his teachers in previous years had to
squash his ideas in order to manage a larger class size with students who had wideley varying learning
speeds.
My child is challenged and encouraged to go above and beyond
The program at KI Jones does meet my childs needs because it gives him the oppurtunity to learn at
the level he needs to be at and not at the level the teacher is teaching at
Both my daughters social development and intellectual needs have exceeded my expectations. The
curriculum and teachers genuine care and enthusiasm have made all the difference.
Both my daughters social development and intellectual needs have exceeded my expectations. The
curriculum and teachers genuine care and enthusiasm have made all the difference.
Challenges her, stimulates her. In a magnet class with other gate kids, she is in an environment that
she shines in.
My older daughter went through the program also. She would have struggled to remain engaged in a
traditional elementary class.
This is my 3rd child going through the Program. It is an excellent Program with amazing teachers.
3 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results The GATE program saved my son! Not only does the program stimulate him academically, it has
helped him to be surrounded by students who think like him. At his old school he was always helping
other students. His academic needs were not being met. He has thrived at the GATE magnet
program. His confidence level and love of learning have also increased.
It's challenged her, last year her work seemed much too easy for her
I believe majority of the needs are met but I put a 4 to account for those that she doesn't mention.
The method of instruction allows him to be engaged in learning rather than previously when he would
get "bored" and receive discipline.
To be honest, besides report cards we don't get a whole lot of information about they're doing, other
than through typical childhood reticence at the dinner table.
Our highly qualified teacher has been able to meet and exceed my child's learning potential.
challenging
Perfect Environment
She has received straight A's on her report card since she began the GATE magnet program in 3rd
grade.
In depth learning opportunities, quicker pace
My child gets helped and challenged in all they do
She is challenged with the curriculum
He is surrounded by students that are more like him socially and academically and he is challenged in
such a way that he wasn't in a "regular" classroom setting.
differentiated instruction, and advanced classmates help keep pace fast enough for him to pay attention
He isn't challenged.
The GATE teachers are better at reaching children with high potential.
Not enough space to fully describe.
I think that the program broading her learning.
It allows my child to be challenged and to be grouped with students of similar ability and thinking
Strong academics along with opportunities for high quality filled trips, robotics offered at school, chess,
gate Olympics, positive teachers.
The GATE teachers provide excellent instruction and guidance for my child
More challenging and project based learning gives my daughter more opportunity to have deeper
learning through experience rather than lecture or books. Also the extended programs such as chess,
robotics and firing languages through Solano community college are all added benefits and
experiences she would not get elsewhere.
She is challenge to use her imagination and to "think outside the box."
The curriculum is challenging, my son is able to accelerate in math and students are regularly given
opportunities to complete projects that expand their understanding of subject matter.
My child is engaged in all subjects. I see a big difference between the GATE magnet teachers/classes
and the "GATE cluster" program. So much more hands-on at the magnet
I want my GATE kid to be with his peers as long as possible. This is my third GATE kid and the older
two are in college and their GATE friends are who they still communicate with and identify with. In a
regular classroom, GATE kids can get lost or become tutors for the other kids. I want my kid to learn
and not feel different because he is a little nerdy.
Because I think she is in a great learning challenge.
Because there's always room for improvement
Julia thinks more deeply and analytically, enjoys school more, and loves the challenge!
The teacher is capable. (Maestros capacitados .)
4 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Elementary Cluster: Because of the transition from K-6 to K-7 there is no set plan provided.
I don't feel that the teachers have the appropriate time to work with the clusters.
she is challenged and encourage to push abilities.
there is almost no GATE education at Oakbrook. Telling my child to read an extra book is not enough.
There is no additional or different GATE instruction at our local school for GATE children. They are all
put into the same class, but with the exception of an additional GATE report card, there is no difference
between GATE instruction and non GATE instruction.
I would like more individualized and hands on instruction
He's learning at his level.
she is learning with like minded students and teachers who understand how she learns
There is not much extra that is provided fir GATE students in the cluster classes
Our son is challenged and his needs are fully addressed. Incidentally, our neighborhood middle school
is not listed in the choices. I put "I don't know" even though I do know that it is B.G.Wilson.
Our teacher is very attentive to challenging our child through a Gate learning program, even though
there is only one participant in the class. She has gone out of her way to both incorporate her fully into
the broader instruction and provide relevant individual instruction.
I feel like she doesn't get enough GATE classroom instruction and is left to evaluate herself rather than
get feedback from a GATE teacher.
There doesn't seem to be any unique class work, or even activities that are for GATE students.
not challenged enough
The work he is given is not so much that it interferes with his chance to be a kid, but it still provides
enough of a challenge that he doesn't get bored.
I dont feel they challenge him
my son nor myself have never been contacted to go over any gate program at the PSA
school..although a lot of the work that they do is very deep and partnership oriented so I figure a lot of
that goes with the gate abilities
Class is not Gate specific so all students have same homework
There's many more things that he could have access to, but the local school provides very little access
other than what his teacher provides. The teacher is wonderful and does provide much, but additional
resources (robotics clubs, specific STEM stuff, etc) are missing.
My son is able to enjoy the benefits of a GATE education while still being in the same environment as
his neighborhood friends.
I don't feel my child is being challenged.
I believe my child could be missing out on GATE focussed projects/trips for areas of study. However,
not willing to send to KI Jones.
Other than an additional weekly packet of work, there is NO differentiated instruction
My child is currently not in a Gate program. His teacher gives him and those that are identified Gate
enhanced work to challenge them.
"Some" of the curriculum is catering to his advanced abilities
Middle School Magnet: Common core math not being taught well.
Children are happy and learning and not bored
5 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results lots of hands on projects and group work
kids in her class are at her level
GATE addresses the unique needs of a Gifted student by addressing not only academics, but social
issues as well. GATE encourages critical thinking.
The teachers know exactly what they are teaching and are able to help the kids go above and beyond.
I always feel that maybe my child isn't challenged enough.
Absolutely! The program has really challenged her and expanded her thinking.
Great teachers and extracurriculars, including band and robotics.
hard to tell
My child has been challenged through the Gate instruction. The gate program gives the children
"honors" type classes at the middle school level. Better preparing and transition to HS and then
College
It challenges my child who would be bored in a traditional classroom.
My son performs well in this environment but the amount of work is excessiv. He spends hours on
homework. I agree he is getting a privileged education but I'm not sure the pressure is necessary. He
did attend KI Jones and I believe the magnet programs have helped him with focus because his peers
think like him.
Academic achievement (su rendimiento escolar)
Middle School Cluster: gives them more opportunity to learn at a faster pace
Special class has not been provided since we move to this district.
6 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Would you recommend the GATE Program in which your child is participating to the parents of other GATE children? Would you recommend the GATE Program in which your child is par5cipa5ng to the parents of other GATE children? 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Elementary Magnet: We've had a positive experience and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the program to other parents.
The GATE teachers are specially trained and at a magnet program, GATE kids WiLL receive GATE
instruction which is not necessarily the case at their neighborhood school.
We've seen our son flourish and grow acedemically and emotionally at an amazing rate.
Great close knit school. Great teachers and students. Not ranked a 5 because I think they could work
more on making new students feel welcome.
The GATE program at KI Jones gives the children the oppurtunity to open up their minds and think,
they are allowed to collaberate with each other and work as teams. At the level these chidren are at it
is very exciting to see what their little minds think about and how they create and form the ideas,
The quality of the teacher and school is much higher at KI Jones compared to other schools.
The quality of the teacher and school is much higher at KI Jones compared to other schools.
A class of 30 gate identified kids really sets the ground work for a great learning experience.
GATE identified children need to be with their peers to promote the type of thinking that best suits them.
Traditional classrooms do not serve these kids well.
The IB Program at Armijo is very rigorous, but the GATE Program does a fantastic job of preparing the
7 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results students for High School.
It's been a great experience for my son. He is getting a great education. He is exposed to great
teachers, curriculum and a positive school environment.
It's been great in every way
It's a great opportunity to challenge the students outside of the regular curriculum.
My child has been highly successful and the teachers are phenomenal
The program is able to teach at a higher and more in depth learning level and our non gate school does
not.
making huge strides in learning
Perfect Environment
My daughter has been very successful in the program and very happy and feels confident in herself
and her abilities.
Great for like minded, gifted, high achieving students to be in the same classroom. They learn from
each other as well as have lots of opportunities to share ideas and work together. They're truly a brainy
group of kids.
I've been very happy with sending my kids here
The educators for the GATE Program are fantastic and are geared towards educating our gifted
students. Sending my child to KI for the magnet program has been the best decision that I feel I could
have possibly made for their educational future.
Regular ed classrooms are trying to teach to too many ablilty levels and everyone loses as a result
Nothing extraordinary.
Great teachers, great principal.
See above
She is learning more than I had expected.
I think each child is different & the magnet is right for some, but not all students...everyone needs to
choose what is best for them.
Opportunities for creative thinking,
My child is the third and last of my children to go through the GATE program. It is invaluable to GATE
identified children and fulfills the necessary instruction at their level.
Not only is the educational program stellar, the community and peer relations are more in line with our
home life and educational philosophies.
Teachers work well together and find unique ways to stimulate children.
It is more challenging than non magnet GATE options.
See above answer- more hands-on and engaging
My child is loves being challenged and being kids that he identifies and being nerdy and smart like he
is. Loves being pushed.
Great atmosphere
Aa a magnet program, it provides the most apprppriate education setting for students with the unique
needs of students identified as meeting the GATE criteria.
KI Jones does a fantastic job of identifying students needs and meeting them.
Appropriate teachers and classes (Maestros y clases apropiadas)
Elementary Cluster: At this time my child is mot benefiting from any plan
Same answer as above
8 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results my child is thriving and her teacher is wonderful.
there is no gate program or activities at this school.
There is no real GATE program unless you go to KI.
same as above
The GATE students don't seem to do very much more/different than the rest of the class. Occasionally
something will be done or only talked about.
Rolling Hills has a very strong program in place for GATE clusters.
It is important to provide an appropriate level of challenge, and our teacher goes out of her way to do
that.
Because she has very little instruction/assignments that are specific to her GATE status. Honestly, she
is in a regular 6th grade class and every progress report completes HER OWN gate assessment. I'm
not aware of any GATE assignments or projects that are specific to the GATE program.
Not helpful in any way. It is called GATE by there is nothing taking place for these GATE children.
not very challenging
They do not challenge the kids
we do not do any gate program ourselves..but I do recommend PSA
Not specific to Gate student advancement
I feel Rolling Hills is great, with great teachers and I would recommend the school on that basis alone.
However, I see no reason to recommend the GATE program specifically as there’s limited additional
feature set that the program provides at the location.
Outstanding 4th grade GATE teacher at our neighborhood school and I feel it is important to know how
to interact with non-GATE students as well.
Nelda Mundy is a great school and a great community. Those positives far outweigh the need to move
to KI Jones
There are no added benefit
I do not know much about the current Gate program at the other schools and cannot answer
Because it has some advantages that he would not have in a regular class.
Middle School Magnet: Not sure program is run well seems like just extra homework without creative challenges and updates
only option at FSUSD for strong education
I like the Grange program.
The teachers are amazing there and we love robotics there so much
same comment as above
workload is too much
See above reasons
Although the school is great, the school is too far away to drive.
I think the Principal and teachers are doing a great job.
Moving to the GATE program was the best move. The teachers are phenomenal and really care about
the success of the students. Her education experience has been a lot more challenging and she has
been exposed to so many new things that would not of happened in the regular classroom.
I like the location of Grange, the school is diverse, and we depend on the "place to be after 3"
afterschool program. Teachers are amazing and my child has a great groups of friends.
lack info
9 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results My child as had a very positive experience
It is a great program!
all gate kids are different. Not all kids can handle the workload. I believe clustering is benificial to them
but the program should look more at the focus of the individual child and not push for performance of
advancement in all areas.
Because I consider them to have an advanced level of education (por que considero que tienen un nivel de
educacion mas avanzado)
Middle School Cluster: Pushes them further to exceed expectations
The school my son attends does not have a GATE program.
10 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results If your child is not currently in a GATE Magnet Program, what is the reason for this? Elementary Magnet: Elementary Cluster: I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially
becoming disconnected from general education students and neighborhood children., My son has
anxiety and the benefits of staying at his current school, with his current friends, outweighed the
academic benefit of the magnet
there would have been too many changes of schools before she graduated
I am concerned about potential changes to the location of the GATE Magnet Programs.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program., I want my child to stay in
our neighborhood school.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially
becoming disconnected from general education students and neighborhood children., I was not able to
ensure that any siblings would be able to attend the same school.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about potential changes to the
location of the GATE Magnet Programs.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program., I want my child to stay in
our neighborhood school., I was not able to ensure that any siblings would be able to attend the same
school.
I was not able to ensure that any siblings would be able to attend the same school.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially
becoming disconnected from general education students and neighborhood children., I feel they give
more project in gate program which seems meaningless, I would rather have more higher education
theory rather than projects
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I was not able to ensure that any siblings would be
able to attend the same school.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program., I want my child to stay in
our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially becoming disconnected from
general education students and neighborhood children., I am concerned about the increased workload
in a GATE Magnet Program.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program.
going into the 4th grade I thought about transferring my son to KI Jones but my son was promised a
good gate program at Oakbrook..he received a little bit but only lasted two to three months one day a
week..was very upset with the program
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially
becoming disconnected from general education students and neighborhood children.
I can not commute one child and others to different schools.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about potential changes to the
location of the GATE Magnet Programs., I am concerned about my child potentially becoming
11 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results disconnected from general education students and neighborhood children., I feel there are more
leadership opportunities for my child in his/her neighborhood school.
I like our school and don't want my 2 children attending separate elementary schools.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school.
I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program., I want my child to stay in
our neighborhood school., I am concerned about my child potentially becoming disconnected from
general education students and neighborhood children., I am concerned about the increased workload
in a GATE Magnet Program.
Middle School Magnet: Not applicable
My child is in GATE.
I want my child to stay in our neighborhood school., I am concerned about the increased workload in a
GATE Magnet Program.
Middle School Cluster: I am unable to transport my child to a school with a GATE Magnet Program.
My son wants to go to PSA
12 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 How likely would you be to transfer your elementary school-­‐
aged GATE child to a GATE Magnet Program that is three years in length? How likely would you be to transfer your elementary school-­‐
aged GATE child to a GATE Magnet Program that is four years in length? 0.50 0.00 How likely would you be to transfer your elementary school-­‐aged GATE child to a GATE Magnet Program that is three years in length? Elementary Magnet: I would move my child but any less than 3 years would weigh heavy on my decision.
I dpn't like it but not enough to try something else. Plus, the quality of GATE instruction outweighs
driving to yet another school.
It seems like a smart decision to allow our child to attend a GATE program in any configuration. We
think our child could handle the transition between schools.
I plan to keep my son in GATE until High School
A 3 year GATE program is better than not being in a GATE program.
A 3 year GATE program is better than not being in a GATE program.
This is a badly worded question, if you are talking about 3/4/5 and every one who qualifies gets into
3rd then more likely. As it is right now, since there is only one 3rd grade at KI, some students do not
get in.
My child is already in GATE
13 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results I feel like it has taken many years to develop the 3rd-6th GATE Program. To remove 6th grade from KI
Program and put it at a middle school, would destroy the pinnacle year of the program.
I know it starts in third grade and three years sounds like it would only go to fifth grade. I would prefer
my son at an elementary school for sixth grade. Also it has been very difficult to get my children to
different schools. If my daughter transfers to KI next year I would want them both T the same school for
at least two yrs.
Since the GATE Manet school is not our neighborhood school, a longer commitment would be more
worth the inconvenience.
I would want to minimize transitions in a short period of time
The education is important, but the commitment and travel has become burdonsome.
If it is three years it would be enough time to learn and put into practice the scholarly traits and higher
learning. Right now it is 3years if you start in 4th grade.
should go through 6th
Sixth grade is important
Since it has been such a successful program for my daughter, I would definitely put my younger
daughter (who is currently in 2nd grade) in the GATE magnet program because of the successes my
daughter has experienced.
Any specialized instruction is better than none.
Not long enough to make that change in school
At this point my child has been in GATE for 3 years. I would much rather they finish their elementary
school education at KI in the GATE Program and then transfer to the GATE program at Grange or
Green Valley. 6th grade is far too young to be in middle school, especially for GATE children and their
needs regarding social interaction skills. If my child were to be forced to transfer to a 3 year program
starting next year (6th) I would be forced to look at other options.
3 years is the bare minimum because kids need stability with friends and teachers
That's what it is now.
I don't understand what you mean by "3 years"...
I think that it will better perpare her for college.
If my child would be in the program all three years, it would be worth it...less than that I would have
reservations
My child is in 6 th grade.
I am 100% pleased with the GATE program
3 years is better than none. I would hesitate however to transfer for only 2 years experience. Some
students are not identified until 3rd grade thus inviting them to attend GATE for 4th grade on. Now with
the cutting of 6th grade next year, I do not know if I would be willing to turn my kids and my own life
upside down to transfer for only 2 years. It would almost be like a tease. "Look how great this
experience is and now that you are finally adjusting and getting acclimated to it, it is time to move on to
a 3rd school! "
Really depends on location.
The magnet program is better than the cluster programs.
The program is great, but moving schools is hard on kids, and when it's just for 3 years, it's a difficult
decision, but worhwhile
I don't want him to have to jump schools all the time. Gate kids do so much better when they are a
group for as long as possible. Al studies show that GATE kids do better in a group with their peers.
I do not want to send siblings to different schools or drive across town
Four years or more are preferred. More years of Magnet will reduce those who exit to a home school
program.
The kids seem do best the longer they stay together. They challenge each other, and feel comfortable
and confident in the relationships they make with kids who are not typical.
14 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Appropriate teachers and classes (Maestros y clases apropiadas)
Elementary Cluster: n/a (my child is older)
My student is in the 5th grade so I don't think this applies
I would need more info on what this means and
another school is inconvenient for drop off and pick up
Not sure if I want to move my child for only 3 years
We're very happy at Rolling Hills and see no reason to change.
The principal and teachers at Suisun Valley have created an exceptionally positive environment and I
would be reticent to move out of it, even for the potential of a better educational system through the
Magnet Program.
If I can transfer her and her sibling (who is not GATE) to the same school, I would definitely transfer
her. Transporting 2 kids to 2 different schools that start at the same time will not work for me since I
don't want to leave either of my children at the school before the gates are opened.
I want my child enrolled in our neighborhood school with his sister.
change
My schedule does not allow me to make that kind of commitment. My children walk home together most
days, that wouldn't be possible if they transferred.
I really like the psa school and choose to keep him there if he is happy gate or no gate
Transportation issue
Other than additional resources, I saw no advantage to moving him out of Rolling Hills. He is happy and
learning. I think he is better served staying in his own school than moving for those programs.
Our neighborhood school is the best in the district and in a good location. Also, I would not want my
kids at different schools from each other.
I just need my child's current school to accomodate his needs.
Our goal is to transfer our child to PSA.
For me, transportation plays a huge role as a single-working mom who works 8-5 outside of town. As
much as the program provides opportunities which the Gate Identified class does not, it's not feasible
for me. It's too bad.
Middle School Magnet: I want my child to not have to move around so much I would like to keep them around their established
peer groups
worried about fitting in
I did this with both my GATE kids.
There shouldn't be a break in the GATE Program
not in elementary
Need more than 3 years in elementary GATE to be effective
I would want to stay at the school as long as possible.
The program is so much stronger it is definitely worth the move.
depends on the location of the school
distance from home main factor
15 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results the distance to travel to KI Elementar school
My daughter is in second grade and I've already made the decision not to enroll her in a magnet
program in K-6 and do an ILP if she is identified because I believe it will serve her individual needs
better than the current magnet program. I would love for her to be with her peer hate children but my
experience with my son in the program leads me to this position. The increased general workload will
not benefit her. I suspect her gifting in visual arts will not be served well there.
Middle School Cluster: How likely would you be to transfer your elementary school-­‐aged GATE child to a GATE Magnet Program that is four years in length? Elementary Magnet: I think it is better for the child to remain at a school as long as possible when they are of elementary
age.
Hmmm. How would that work, exactly?
We feel it would benefit our child to attend any GATE Magnet program, in whatever configuration it was
offered.
I want my son to receive the best education he possibly can get
It is important to me that my child be with like minded students in a program that meets her needs.
It is important to me that my child be with like minded students in a program that meets her needs.
again if you are talking 3/4/5/6 then highly likely, but either way a four year commitment seems like a
minimum for anyone driving from far away
GATE provided the education that suits my child. Traditional education does not.
The strength of the GATE Program at KI is that it is a 4 year Program that builds to that 6th grade year.
According to my 17 year old at Armijo and 13 year old at GV, their 6th grade GATE yr at KI was their
most important and significant school year of their educational experience. The 6th grade years is
when "it all comes together" and provides the students with the platform they need to jump into Middle
School and High School and be successful.
I think I explained in the last question
This would be a long enough time where it would not seem like multiple transitions in a short period
It would give time for more social adjustment.
the Program is 3rd through 6th
Sixth grade is important
For the same reasons mentioned above.
Same as above.
I feel that more years with GATE is better
It would depend on the year of school that my child was in. Being as my child will be in 6th next year, I
still do not feel that this would be the best option given, again, the social needs of these children.
More time to connect as a social group is better at an age when kids are already uncertain of
themselves due to puberty and hormones
Continuity.
See above, I don't understand all "year" options...
16 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results The more she learns the better off she will be in the future.
I like the longer time in one program & school
The more the better.
Location
Magnet programs are better than cluster programs.
better opportunity for child to feel like apart of the new school
I do not want to send siblings to different schools or drive across town
The longer the magnet, the better. It would make homeschooling less attractive.
See above.
Good education system (Buen sistema de educación)
Elementary Cluster: More stability
If he was younger, the more years in the program, the better.
same reason as above
less changes of school
n/a my child is older
My student is in the 5th grade, so, next year he will be middle school
I would need more info first
just unsure
We're very happy with Rolling Hills.
If I can transfer her and her sibling (who is not GATE) to the same school, I would definitely transfer
her. Transporting 2 kids to 2 different schools that start at the same time will not work for me since I
don't want to leave either of my children at the school before the gates are opened.
Na
challenge
same reason
Same reason as above
Transportation issues
Other than additional resources, I saw no advantage to moving him out of Rolling Hills. He is happy and
learning. I think he is better served staying in his own school than moving for those programs.
Same as above
Not at KI Jones
I just need my child's current school to accomodate his needs.
Same reason as previous question
Same reasons as above.
Middle School Magnet: See above
longer chance to become part of the school community
17 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results I think the sooner the better so they can adjust to the new school.
The students would be together longer.
Same reason. Either length it is worth the move.
depends on the location of the school
not sure it depends on my child input
Same reason as previously stated.
Middle School Cluster: 18 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results If a second grade GATE Magnet class was offered at KI Jones, how likely would you be to transfer your child to that program? If a second grade, GATE Magnet class was offered at KI Jones, how likely would you be to transfer your child to that program? 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Elementary Magnet: I've been very happy with KI Jones and would move my younger child there without question if she
was identified as a GATE student.
Not applicable
The sooner a GATE identified child can move into a GATE magnet class would benefit the child greatly.
I currently have to transport my 4th grade magnet student and my 1st grade student to 2 different
schools that start at the same time- cordelia hills and ki jones. If I would've known that my gate student
was accepted ahead of time I would've at least petition for my 1st grader to attend KI jones.
I love KI Jone school
My daughter has been in the GATE program for a year and a half at KI Jones. She is blossoming into
this self-confident and extremely intelligent young lady. I think if I would have gotten her a year earlier
that would have been a bonus.
My daughter has been in the GATE program for a year and a half at KI Jones. She is blossoming into
this self-confident and extremely intelligent young lady. I think if I would have gotten her a year earlier
that would have been a bonus.
The sooner you can identify and begin gate focused education the better
19 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results The earlier the better. My son wasn't challenged at all in either first or second grade.
It would be awesome for my son to spend 4 whole years in KI jones gate
Just feel neutral about this as it wouldn't apply
It would give time for more social adjustment.
2nd grade too young
I think there are second graders that are GATE qualified and would be benefit from the instruction
provided in the GATE magnet program.
Does not apply to me.
I think adding 2nd grade would be a great idea
Sending my 7 year old to a school across town, where s/he is the new kid is a little scary
Depends on the child.
I am going all out to give my child the best education possible even if it involves a commute.
I wish that had been an option for my older children!
The more the better. Our experience for the past 3 years has been nothing but positive.
I want my children to receive a top motch education.
Building a good foundation to learning early on is the best way to go
I think the earlier they are identified and the longer they can stay together the better they do in Jr. High
and High School.
We already live close to KI, so we would send our child there no matter what
It is an established program with high quality teachers, an excellent Principal with real experience with
GATE, and a good reputation. When our current first grader gets GATE identified, this will be very
attractive.
KI Jones has done a fantastic job with the GATE program.
not applicable to me
Adequate education (Educación adecuada)
Elementary Cluster: Too old
happy at Nelda Mundy
she would only be there one year then have to move again
n/a my child is older
I don't plan on moving my kids out of their neighborhood school
location
Depends if my other child would be accepted also.
At this point, he only has 2 more years of elementary. I'm happy at RH and see no advantages to
moving him.
I feel that the Suisun Valley school is exceptional.
My GATE student isn't in 2nd grade.
Na
she's a sixth grader
my son is older
20 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results ki jones too far from home
Other than additional resources, I saw no advantage to moving him out of Rolling Hills. He is happy and
learning. I think he is better served staying in his own school than moving for those programs.
Same as above
N/A
We love the instruction provided at our home school / Dan O. Root
Again, same reason as above.
Middle School Magnet: We like rolling hills school
Earlier the better
I am not a big fan of KI, frankly. I really liked the GATE program at Tolenas. Also, I think there should
be at least two classes for each grade so a parent can change to another teacher, if needed and still be
in the GATE program.
Too far. My husband works in SF and I work in Concord. It needs to be a bit more accessible to all
residents.
Transportation will be an issue and the afterschool program there is too expensive
5 years in a GATE program would be ideal
I would want my child to be in GATE for four years before middle school.
I have younger children and would transfer them as soon as they became eligible.
location. We live near KI Jones and can keep siblings together.
no 2nd grade child
My child transfer in 3rd grade - why not 2nd
Middle School Cluster: although my child is now in middle school, if he were in grade school, I would send him there.
21 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results How likely would you be to enroll your middle school aged GATE child at your neighborhood school if there was a GATE program offered there? How likely would you be to enroll your middle school-­‐aged GATE child at your neighborhood school if there was a GATE program offered there? 5.00 4.50 4.00 3.50 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Elementary Magnet: It may depend on what other options, if any, were available.
Would not send my child to bgale
Green Valley is our neighborhood school and is already offering GATE instruction so obviously we
would send our children there.
The convenience to us as a family would be ideal.
Depends where school is, my sons home school changed to Suisun Valley and I do not want to send
him there because of how far it is. I love B Gale Wilson and also KI Jone. Either one would be perfect.
I have not investigated the middle school enough yet.
I have not investigated the middle school enough yet.
I have visited both middle school magnet programs... to just add some gate classes to a local
intermediate would not be near the same quality as the established magnet programs
There is a lot of fighting at his neighboring school
22 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results location
Convenience
If GATE was offered at BGale, I would be concerned about other elements of the school such as no
formal PE program (ie kids do not dress - PE is more academic than active here, etc) I also think that
this school already has too many programs that I would worry about program integrity.
Having my child in a GATE progam in my neighborhood school is ideal.
B Gale makes most sense because it is closest middle school to KI Jones, and the majority of kids live
closest to B Gale
I would only put my child at Crystal Middle school if there were a GATE program there.
This would greatly depend on the caliber of teachers at the school.
I would prefer my student have a full GATE middle school experience, reconnect with the youth of our
neighborhood and to make it possible for him to self transport (bike/walk) which will not be possible if
he goes to B. Gale Wilson or Grange.
Convenience.
K I Jones is a preferred school to Laurel Creek for a plethora of reasons...
I think the gate program gives my child insight of future education.
It would depend on how strong the program was. I am concerned that spreading the program too thin
will weaken it. I would rather have strong core GATE classes for my son...with trained staff
convenience
As I mentioned before, not only is the quality of education impressive but the other students and
families generally follow the same educational and behavioral philosophies as our family.
Less commute
It depends on whether or not it is s magnet or cluster program.
As long as it is a true GATE magnet, and not the GATE cluster (which does not differentiate between
GATE and non-gate student learners). Putting GATE and non-GATE together does not give the gifted
learners a better opportunity for learning on a larger spectrum. It restricts their potential
We generally prefer convenience. We have three kids an both parents work, so we can't drive all over
town.
If the magnet option is no longer available, homeschooling would be more attractive.
Grange is not a safe school site for my child. Sad, because I know the GATE program there is great!
Classes at an adequate level (Clases a nivel adecuado)
Elementary Cluster: I want him to be challenged and benefit from the curriculum
not sure if I like Green Valley Middle
it would keep her closer to home, less commute, and she would be able to participate in more activites
than if we had a longer commute
I think the teaching would be of a higher caliber at a magnet school in a classroom of similar level
students
He will be going to 6th grade at GVMS and currently it is a GATE Magnet school.
its a good program
I prefer to keep my child in neighborhood school but would like a better gate program for the students.
With middle school being more departmentalized than elementary and necessitating a change in
schools anyway, it's a natural time and way to transition him to a GATE environment.
I would like her to go to Green Valley Middle School GATE program because of the teachers there. I've
heard very positive reviews from other parents about the GATE teachers at GV as well as from the
23 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results teachers from Rolling Hills. Unfortunately, I've heard negative reviews, mostly from teachers at Rolling
Hills, about the teachers at B Gale Wilson and therefore would not like my GATE student to attend
there.
Depends if it took place at our neighborhood school
our middle school does have gate ..but it Depends on if my son wants to transfer
gate program is good to challenge students
I want to keep him at his neighborhood school.
I feel that my son needs the GATE Program to be adequately challenged in his education.
He will continue at Suisun Valley through 8th grade and it would be wonderful if that school had a
GATE program!
We are hoping to transfer our 4th grader to PSA for 5th grade and on.
It would be the best of both worlds to have a strong program at my neighborhood school. You can't go
wrong with that!
Middle School Magnet: B Gail will be experiencing too much change already next year
Prefer to be closer to home and with other regular ed children he knows
I would prefer my child to be able to get to know children in her neighborhood.
Close by and good program
depends on the location of the school
Although this would be extremely convienient, I have not heard good things about this school.
Unless there are more than 4 classroom full of GATE students, my student would not be clustered with
other like minded GATE students. Would prefer several classrooms of GATE students together.
Reduce travel time.
I do not like the middle school near me.
I don't like moving my kids around to different schools.
I am not sure. It would depend on the size. I would not want her to be in too small of group. It would
also depend on how the classes differed from what is offered at Green Valley.
I would enroll her there if the gate program was big/prominent enough. I don't think the program is as
effective when its just once a week or there are only a few people enrolled.
likely but with input from my child
Depends on the quality of that program
I live close to GVMS also I already has a child attending GVMS
Would not send my child to bgale
Middle School Cluster: for him to excel in learning.
If PSA offer the program, that will be great.
24 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results What is your preference for the structure of the middle school GATE Program? 3.00 2.75 2.50 2.25 ConOnue with current Magnet Choices 2.00 1.75 1.50 Provide GATE Program at all Middle Schools 1.25 1.00 0.75 Provide GATE Program at all Middle Schools & ConOnue KI Jones Magnet through Middle School 0.50 0.25 0.00 25 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Please provide any additional feedback regarding the GATE Program in FSUSD. Elementary Magnet: I would like to see the GATE program stay at KI through 6th grade.
So far, we are very pleased with the GATE program. We miss being able to walk to school and the K.I.
Jones facility is old and could use some work but that affects everyone not just GATE. The teachers
are dedicated and enthusiastic. My children are challenged and not bored. However, I would point out
that if a GATE-eligible child remains at their neighborhood school, they do not necessarily receive
GATE instruction even though that is offered as an option--at least this is the case at Cordelia Hills.
I am not sure how GATE works in middle school and how many children are enrolled at Grange and
Green Valley. I really do not want to send my son to Grange and Green Valley is too far. I would
chose #1 as keeping KI Jones the GATE Magnet Program and 2nd GATE program all middle schools
and #3 continue as before.
I really hope KI Jones will keep 6th grade for GATE students. KI Jones teachers are truly Gifted And
Talented Educators! Our children will only benefit being at KI Jones through 6th grade. I also believe
most GATE students are not ready to transition to middle school from the 5th grade. PLEASE KEEP
6th GRADE AT KI JONES!
I really hope KI Jones will keep 6th grade for GATE students. KI Jones teachers are truly Gifted And
Talented Educators! Our children will only benefit being at KI Jones through 6th grade. I also believe
most GATE students are not ready to transition to middle school from the 5th grade. PLEASE KEEP
6th GRADE AT KI JONES!
I have two children in the Gate Magnet program. This has been a wonderful experience for both of
them. I would hope the FSUSD would continue to push for expanded Gate programs. It is a true
shining example of what FSUSD is doing right and one you should be proud of and wear as a badge of
honor.
In a perfect world I would never send our 6th graders into an expanded middle school. I wish we could
keep gate magnet as a program unto itself at KI, even adding 2nd grade and two third grades thru 6th
making it an obvious choice for parents with Gate identified children. A true commitment from the
district to the program, the teachers, students and parents.
If we are going to send 6th grade magnet kids to middle school then I would hope that at the least the
two magnet programs remain, with Green Valley also incorporating STEM or STEAM into its gate
program.
The least appealing option is to try to put a few gate classes at each middle school. It would be a
watered down 'in name only' Gate idea. This really would no longer be the Gate program that we
committed to.
Commit to GATE MAGNET - Strengthen it / Stem it - and be PROUD that you are giving a great
opportunity to these students, teachers and the Fairfield - Suisun district.
The Elementary GATE Program is not a "broken program" that needs to be "fixed." The Elementary
GATE Program is an amazingly successful program that routinely produces the majority of the top
students at the 3 Fairfield High Schools. If the District tries to fix something that isn't broken, it is only
hurting the Program and the students. If you interview the students, they will tell you that the KI GATE
Magnet Program is a much more challenging and rewarding experience than the Middle School GATE
Program. Taking 6th graders from the KI GATE Program and putting them at the Middle School GATE
Program is not the answer. My older son explained the following to me about his Middle School GATE
Experience: "The kids that are successful at Middle School GATE Program are the students that came
through the KI GATE Magnet Program. The other students are at a major disadvantage. Even though
the School District sticks Middle School students into the GATE Program so the District can fill the
Middle School GATE classes, it's not fair to many of the kids, because they are behind with their skills
26 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results and they struggle with the material. Many of the kids feel so much pressure to succeed, that they start
cheating. There is a lot of cheating in the Middle School GATE Program, because the District sets the
kids up to fail. The Middle School teachers see the amount of cheating, and they see that the kids can't
do the work, so they dilute the Middle School GATE Program material and expectations." After
watching my older two children go through the system, it seems that the District has a very strong
Elementary GATE Magnet Program, and a weak and diluted Middle School GATE Program. Some of
the options being proposed seem to weaken the Middle School GATE Program even further.
Great!
-Having GATE at all Middle Schools is ideal, only if there are enough GATE teachers to run effective
and challenging programs that are the same at all schools. If that cannot be acheived it dilutes and/or
diminishes the value of the program.
-2nd to 5th grade gate would be nice, but I would like to know more about the criteria being used to
identify GATE students who would be 1st graders. I would make sure there is a plan for students
identified in later years.
-including some GATE instruction at more schools would be great for families that cannot or do not
attend a Magnet School. Even if it's only special ELA/Math once a week.
It makes the most sense to have 1 magnet Middle School GATE Program and to put that program at B.
Gale Wilson. B. Gale is the closest Middle School to K.I. Jones.
Please leave the 6th grade GATE program at KI Jones. It is not fair to make next years 6th graders
move three times in three years: 5th at KI Jones, 6th at B Gale Wilson and 7th at Grange or Green
Valley.
The question above does not offer all options. What about a 3-8 magnet program at one site? You need
to have a critical mass of GATE students in order for the program to thrive.
I thought there were going to be questions about identification on this survey. What happened?
I would really like for 6th grade to continue at KI Jones for one more year since I may have an entering
3rd grader in the GATE program and both of my daughters would be able to be at the same school for
one year. Also, there are some excellent 6th grade GATE teachers at KI Jones and I would love for my
daughter to be have comfort in knowing that she will have one teacher who will be able to prepare her
for the middle school experience in 7th grade at Grange or Green Valley.
GATE programs at all of the MS would provide access to all students; currently there is nothing
available at BGW. There needs to be a continuation of the KI Jones Magnet program at one MS
school, which is currently unavailable. As of today, the GATE Programs at GV and Grange are really
only honors classes and not a true magnet program. Students who go through the KI Jones magnet
program are dedicated and extremely hard working students. Without the same level of instruction and
expectation at the middle school level, the skills and strategies instilled in elementary are forgotten and
unpracticed. I have first hand experience with my older daughter who is currently in the 9th grade. She
has gone through the KI Jones Magnet program and Grange MS.
This program has been very beneficial to my children. My son especially has benefited greatly from the
caliber of teachers and the understanding that is necessary for children that are in the GATE program.
It would be mine and many other parents' preference to continue on with GATE being offered 3rd - 6th
at KI Jones with the option of Grange or Green Valley in Middle School. Even better would be to extend
GATE to 2nd grade. If the district is insisting that elementary schools go strictly K-5 (including KI) I hope
they would consider revising this and leaving 6th grade GATE at the elementary school level. I do not
think it comes as any surprise that these children often need more help and guidance with social
situations and I feel STRONGLY that 6th grade for most of these students is TOO SOON for middle
school.
My primary concern with the idea of "GATE at all middle schools" is that we will end up with 9 watered
down programs rather than a few strong options.
GATE families are told by their local principal that our kids will get services through the local school, but
that middle school is where GATE is really important because of the electives that are available.
Offering those GATE electives at more than one school is critical. Trying to offer them at 9 not
financially feasible.
In my perfect world the B.Gale Magnet would be developed as an extension of KI Jones while
27 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results maintaining the magnet programs at GV and Grange. Not just "GATE strands" but actual magnet
programs, so that all those families that could not take advantage of the KI Jones program will have a
place to thrive. It sounds lovely to have GATE at all the middle school programs, but the reality is that
that would be terribly expensive, and the first year we have a serious rollback of funds the District would
have to cut and consolidate. For this reason, I would prefer to see a more temperate growth of the
program - encouraging all eligible students to explore GATE work without watering it down so far that it
isn't worth calling GATE.
I would like to see GATE 6th grade to stay at KI JONES. Would also like to see middle school be 7, 8
and 9 grades together.
Overall the gate magnet program should be at one elementary and one middle school. Where they can
have teachers who are gate certified. This way the kids would benefit with other kids in the class who
are at the same level. Gate at every school is not a good idea. It should be concentrated at one or
two schools.
Please, continue GATE at K I Jones for an additional year. It will be extremely hard for my daughter at
a middle school next year.
If something is working, why change it. Sometime change is good but you will have to work out the
bugs. I don't want my child caught up in the bug extermination process. I am also hating that my child
can't continue the gates program at KI Jones like we were told when we signed up for the program. If
she has to attend middle school in the 6th grade, I think that she will be too young.
I am still concerned about where 6th grade GATE will be next year because these other changes seem
like they will take more time and training. I would like to see 6th grade remain at KI Jones while the
details and specifics are worked out for the future.
Our child entered gate at KI in 5th grader, transferring from the DI program at BGale Wilson in order to
give him an opportunity to perhaps be in a class with other kids with out of box thinking and more
challenge in math. ( His twin remained in the DI program which we love!) while we appreciate the focus
on scholarship, collaboration and extra curricular opportunities, the focus on competition within the
class and the overload of homework projects which for students who are involved in after school sports
and music is really stressful, have been challenging. There are also bullying issues in gate that don't
necessarily present in physical ways, but in verbal harassment and social exclusion that are not always
addressed.
My 6th grader is the third and final child of ours to completely go through the GATE programs in the
FSUSD. My oldest child is a sophomore in college is on track to graduate in just three years at the age
of 20 because of her earlier education and programs that were designed for her. I believe the GATE
Program prepared her and encouraged her joy of learning that continued on through Green Valley,
Rodriguez HS and into college. Children that need faster paced learning and soak up education need a
GATE Program to enrich their studies.
I am pleased to learn that the GATE program is not only being maintained but possibly improved. I think
it is a real detriment that the 6th grade is being removed from KI and am so grateful that my daughter
was able to finish her elementary education at KI through the 6 th grade. I am very interested to see
how this all plays out as I have a first grader who may be affected by any changes made to the program
if he qualifies. I feel that there are so many programs, fundings and committees whose soul focus is
supporting and improving the at risk students and not enough focus is placed on the gifted students.
The mere fact that we only have one elementary school providing services to these kids and only the
lucky ones whose name gets pulled in a lottery actually get to attend, says something about the lack of
priority that these amazing students are given. So I thinking adding in more classrooms in more schools
around the district (so that transportation doesn't prevent a student from this most amazing and even
LIFE CHANGING experience) is a top priority. It is not enough to have "tracked" classrooms where the
teachers group all the high kids together. You need to add in more classrooms with actual GATE
certified and trained teachers! My daughter has experienced both types of classrooms and there is
absolutely no comparison. It is imperative that the teachers "get" these kids and only through proper
training and certification can they actually be of service to these students.
I feel STRONGLY that having GATE magnets at both Green Valley and Grange is beneficial to the
distract. I am against removing the magnets in place of one magnet school at B. Gale. I've been
distressed by the lack of options for kids with GATE identification on the east side of Fairfield.
Removing GATE from Grange further segregates the East/West parts of town as haves and have nots.
28 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Do we really want to live in a district that says smart kids need to be shipped over to the west side of
town in order to get appropriate education? Give 6th graders the option of going either to Green Valley
or Grange and make them three year programs.
I am not interestrd in the GATE program being offered at all middle school sites. There aren't enough
kids in the district to populate a program at each middle school site, and this would result in a watered
down program.
We have had a wonderful, positive experience with the GATE magnet for my daughter, who started at
K.I. in the 3rd grade, and is now in 6th. I believe the GATE selection process needs to be looked at.
My son scored a 94% on his GATE test, and was not considered for GATE with no explanation. It's
disappointing that there is a great resource for learning and development in the GATE magnet program,
but the selection process is biased. This leads to boredom in the classroom= love of learning
diminished= future opportunities lost.
GATE kids do so much better when they are all in the same classroom. The longer they are together,
the better they do. GATE kids will be the first to tell you they are nerdy and think differently.
We are OK with driving to Grange, but Green Valley is a stretch for us (too long of a commute). I'm a
really impressed with the Grange program, and I plan to sent my 6th grader there next year. I like the
magnet because then you have a large group of GATE kids that can be together through multiple
classes. I don't think that a pull-out program is as effective.
In general, the more GATE magnet, the more attractive the district (as compared to options like
homeschooling and Buckingham). A more centrally located MS/GATE (Crystal?) would also be
attractive. We are impressed with the Suisun PD/Crystal MS collaboration and mutual proximity.
There also seems to be an unusual amount of restructuring (k5/k6/k8/GATE location). I'm unsure what
drives these decisions, but it would be nice to see a clear path for each of our children's educations
rather than guessing from year to year.
Respectfully,
Current/future GATE Parent
K-8 would be a fantastic format for the GATE program! And thank you for keeping the magnet program.
Elementary Cluster: Oakbrook 7th Grade Gate students are overlooked due to the transition from K-6 to K-7 there is no set
plan provided. The year is already half over.
I don't feel that remaining at his home school in the clusters has been of much benefit. I would like to
see more of an emphasis on special curriculum for the clusters.
Our family would prefer a substatial GATE program at Green Valley Middle starting in 6th grade.
Oakbrook does not provide any real GATE enrichment and the plan provided to me for my student is a
joke and has been since she was GATE identified three years ago. Oakbrook uses the GATE students
to increase test scores at the expense of the GATE students education. My daughter could better use
her educational time on GATE enrichment activities rather than helping underachieving students at the
request of the teachers and administration.
Overall I believe a focused magnet school (or 2) gives the best option rather than what will be (in my
opinion) watered-down options at every middle school. My main issue is that the district needs to figure
this out soon. We opted not to send our child to KI and are now at a disadvantage because she will
have to go somewhere else and receive no GATE instruction for 6th Grade. My fear is if we chose a
middle school based on what the district says it will do for 7th and 8th grades, and then a year goes by,
that gets changed, and we have to switch schools again. With due respect, this should have been
figured out long ago. Had we known that the other elementary schools would be losing 6th grade we
definitely would have sent her to KI. It's not fair now that the KI students are going to get to stay at their
school for 6th grade while the rest of the GATE students in the district transitioning from 5th to 6th do
not. Has anyone considered adding a class or two to KI for 6th grade to accommodate those parents
who would like their kids to have a 6th grade GATE education (assuming of course the district approves
keeping 6th at KI).
29 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results Note that B. Gale Wilson was not listed as an option for "neighborhood middle school" in question #3.
Thank you for sending out the survey; we appreciate you bringing the parents into the discussion.
Please keep GATE Magnet at GVMS and have experienced teachers who will make it fun and
challenging. Depending on the number of GATE students, there may be a need to have GATE
programs at all the middle schools or even just at GVMS and Grange.
This program needs to be retained by the district please!! There are cuts being made left and right!!
For those of us struggling just with transportation itself, having these options at multiple schools gives
parents a great piece of mind!
I will pull my child out of GATE if the program is transferred to another school than ki jones
I'd love to see GATE offered at all middle schools. I feel more comfortable sending my son to the school
that his elementary school feeds into, plus the carpooling options are better since it's our neighborhood
school.
Thank you for your efforts to use the GATE programs and the various options to challenge our children.
I would also like to be able to transfer my GATE student's sibling (not in GATE), for safety reasons. It's
unreasonable to expect a parent to drop off one child at one school, before the gates are open, so that
parent can get the other child to another school, on time. Either stagger the times when the schools
start so it's safe to drop off when the gates are open or allow siblings to be transferred with the GATE
identified student.
Needs much improvement and working with GATE teachers to provide proper instruction.
my son is doing very well at psa with the hands on and working with others. I'm not sure exactly what
gate is entitled because we have never been in a gate class but he is having fun and doing very well in
school and I am happy and he is happy
All Gate instruction/classes should be specifically for Gate identified students and not blended. Gate
students are challenged to same level as magnet classes.
GATE students must be provided for regardless which school they go to. The practice of creating
magnet programs at campuses other than those where those children would naturally go to school is an
artifice created to benefit other factors rather than benefit the GATE students themselves. I want to see
good programs like cluster classes provided at the student's natural school with significant enrichment
open to all GATE students regardless of location.
For example, there's no reason that the robotics club at K.I. Jones should only be accessible to the
GATE students at the location. While I can understand the necessity of a single location for the
materials (in this and other cases, but not all cases would this be applicable), there's no reason it
couldn't be offered as an after-school program and open to other GATE students in the district.
I'd also like to see a way to get parent-volunteers into helping provide resources. For example, I could
provide mentoring in many STEM related fields and have unique resources I could provide, if there
were only some established structured process of getting parents involved.
Provide gate programs at all middle schools and all elementary schools.
Provide a gate magnet program at one school of the rolling hills elementary school .
I am disappointed with the lack of a GATE program at my student's school. Although his classroom
teacher has made an attempt at, for lack of a better way to say it, adding more work to my child's plate,
this was done at our request as he was not receiveing anything prior, nor the year before. I believe that
it is the district's responsibility to include ALL GATE students in the program regardless of their school
site, that classroom teachers should be provided materials as they have enough other responsibilities
to worry about, and that GATE students should be invited to participate in the additional programs that
I've heard of at the magnet schools, such as chess club, robotics, etc!
Middle School Magnet: Needs more review, attention and updating. The testing for gate students needs a major overhaul and
not just Aimed at spacial learners. It seems slanted toward Lego learners and we are missing other
30 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results gifted personalities that are more well rounded. I also feel citizenship and behavioral standards should
help eliminate some of the excess.
You don't have B Gale Wilson listed on the survey in question 3 as a choice for neighborhood middle
school (which would be my answer).
Magnet programs are the preference. Offering at all schools makes me concerned that not enough
students would be identified per grade level, then you'd get service by clusters, which is a very watered
down approach to GATE and left to each individual teacher who isn't likely to add to their workload
voluntarily. Limits the collaboration process that a Magnet program allows for.
Although I don't love the idea of elementary being K-5 and all junior highs becoming middles with 3
years, I really dislike the idea of leaving only the 6th grade GATE students at K I. I think that will further
isolate them from their regular ed peers. I feel strongly that the GATE students at KI benefit from
interaction with regular ed students and vice versa.
I think providing a magnet program is key. Even at the middle school level. Those kids need to be
around other kids that are like them. I had a child in a smaller cluster before and the teacher had no
idea what she was doing, other than giving my daughter more work and the other kids thought my child
was weird. The magnet classes allow them to excel and work with each other. PLEASE--don't destroy
the GATE programs in the district. Provide at least one magnet class for the parents that would like to
take advantage of it.
FSUSD needs to do a better job screening GATE kids. GATE scores are NOT the only factor in
identifying GATE kids. Because the lack of screening at the district and school level, my child who
scored advanced in all CST levels from 2nd grade through 6th grade suffered because she was not
identified as GATE. I suspect that the GATE score was the only determining factor. I am extremely
disappointed at the school district and the elementary school because she was miserable in elementary
school. She was NOT being challenged in anyway and no one cared enough to see this and do
something for us!!! She was finally placed in GATE in the 7th grade and is thriving in the program. She
has gained her eagerness to learn again because she finally feels challenged. I hope the district will do
more to identify GATE kids and placed them appropriately! The district mainly focus on kids not
meeting proficiency but don't forget that there are high performing kids needing an education too. After
all, these high performing kids help bring up the AYP scores and it would be a disadvantage for the
school and school district if these kids transfer out of the district or moves to private school.
K.I.Jones was a great gate school. Green Valley gate isn't anything special. I drive 40 miles a day to
take and pick my child up. There should be a closer school. I would never let her go to Grange. Your
survey sounds like you only want to change the elementary schools. Gate gives the kids too much
homework. They are missing out on their childhood.
The elementary Gate program should be located at a centrally located school. Parents from Suisun
City have to sacrafice to get their child to KI. You are faced with the quandry of taking your child way
over to KI or staying local and having choices for the child to get to and from school.
I don't feel the GATE program at Green Valley middle is as strong as the GATE program at Grange.
However, most parents choose GV because it is in a better location with (perceived) better student
demographics. Only difficulty is getting there as it is across town, especially for us who live in Paradise
Valley.
I like KI Jones GATE program. The teachers have done a remarkable job there. Please keep it intact.
Although GATE magnet is predicated upon challenging the kids with advance schoolwork, the amount
of homework, should be reduced overall, so that they can still be kids. Also, during holiday weekends,
and extensive time off, such as winter break, there should not be any homework assigned. Finally, an
introductory overview of common core math should be provided to parents, along with clear examples
of how math problems are completed for assigned homework. The parents should be able to assist
with helping the child understand and complete their math assignments.
Too much homework us given to the students.
The GATE program has been such a positive experience for my two kids. Their education at KI Jones
was phenomenal and I was so impressed with the teachers. It was my first experience of meeting
teachers that truly cared about my kids success. The education was such a step from what they
31 December 2014 GATE Parent Survey Results received at B Gale. In the GATE classes they were challenged and taught to think more critically. I
had seen a lot of the lower students get extra assistance, and it was great for my higher achieving
students to get special attention. Thank you! I hope the programs continue.
Quite frankly the above is a mute point. Dependent on funding, gate teacher availability, class size and
the ability to fill those additional classes ect...
Middle School Cluster: My older son went through the GATE program and loved it. It gave him the tools and a close bond of like
minded friends who care about their grades and excelling in what they do.
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