Program Description

A differentiated curriculum model is in place for all students at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels. The GATE program focuses on the advanced level component of the general education curriculum and is delivered during the regular school day.

Currently, the District uses cluster grouping for language arts and mathematics in grades 3-6. Assignments in these classes are more open-ended, long-term, and complex, and require a balance of independent and collaborative thinking with like-peers than in non-clustered classes.

At the middle school level, part-time grouping is used in English and mathematics in order to compact, extend and exceed the core curriculum. These courses are designed to specifically address the needs of advanced learners with tiered assignments and differentiated resources that require more depth and complexity than the regular grade level curriculum. Flexible scheduling is also available for advanced students who qualify to take advanced levels of math or science at the Carlsbad High School.

Gifted and talented students at the high school are served by a strong honors and advanced placement (AP) program. Enrollment in these classes is dependent upon successful completion of course prerequisites; though there are provisions for enrollment by challenge exam or administrative placement.