California Association for the Gifted continues to work diligently in promoting advocacy for gifted programs and students throughout the state. More than ever, we all need to rise to the occasion in support of the special needs of gifted children.
Remember that state funding for GATE was cut by 20%, not eliminated. Although GATE must take its fair share of required cuts, it is not reasonable to eliminate this important program.
Some suggestions that have been generated by CAG Board members are:
1)Use email, Facebook, or Twitter to distribute information
2)Work especially with Program Improvement districts
3)Inservice teachers and parents in differentiation
4)Have culturally responsive pedagogy
5)Utilize parent groups to fundraise to send teachers/parents to conferences
6)Infuse GATE into other district programs
7)Collect data and identify strategies that are being used at schools whose scores are rising
8)Use technology – video conferencing, conference calls
9)Video exemplary classrooms/schools to share with others
10) Work with other subgroups (ie. Dropouts, preschool, career and technical education)
11) Continue gifted advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels
