At International Virtual Learning Academy (IVLA), we understand the unique needs of gifted and talented students. To meet these needs, we have created an online program intended for children with exceptional abilities. IVLA’s Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program provides learning enrichment, fosters critical thinking, encourages creative problem-solving skills, and facilitates cooperative learning opportunities with other gifted students.
Students are initially identified through a test appropriate to each grade level. Review of academic achievement is also considered in determining placement.
IVLA has designed advanced math and language arts online courses for gifted learners in grades 3-5. GATE students will work on an accelerated track in preparation for more advanced course work in middle school and an Honors/AP track for high school.
Gifted students in grades 6 – 8 will have the opportunity to earn high school credit in the areas of math, English and foreign language. Placement will be determined through aptitude screening in each area. If placed, students in grades 6 – 8 have the opportunity to earn up to 5 high school credits.
All IVLA gifted grade 3-8 students meet weekly with a Gifted and Talented Specialist who will guide them in challenging project-based learning activities suited for their grade level and abilities. During these meetings, students work with other gifted students to enhance higher-level thinking skills.
Through coordination among our program administrators, teachers, Gifted and Talented Specialist, IVLA provides the following services to gifted students:
The federal definition of gifted is as follows:
"The term ‘gifted and talented,” when used with respect to students, children, or youth, means students, children, or youth who give evidence of high achievement capability in such areas as intellectual, creative, artistic, or leadership capacity, or in specific academic fields, and who need services or activities not ordinarily provided by the school in order to fully develop those capabilities."
(No Child Left Behind Act, P.L. 107-110 (Title IX, Part A, Definition 22) (2002); 20 USC 7801(22) (2004))
GATE stands for Gifted And Talented Education. IVLA refers to its program for gifted students as the GATE program.
Eligibility is determined through a compilation of measurements. IVLA will administer a nationally recognized GATE test that is appropriate to the student's grade level. These test scores along with previous school records and a parent questionnaire will be reviewed to determine eligibility for the program. To maintain the integrity of the test, we will not release the name of the test until it is administered to the student.
Yes. Due to the fluctuation in the determinations by different school districts, IVLA will need to administer our own test and measures to determine eligibility.
Students can be tested once a year. If students do not qualify, they may take the test again in 12 months.
Yes. Students in the GATE program are required to attend weekly meetings with their GATE specialist in a virtual classroom. During these meetings, GATE students will be working as a team on projects.
Students with the GATE program will have all the resources of our regular program. Students will work at an advanced level and likely take additional courses. Also, they will work with a GATE specialist each week as they complete projects with other GATE students.
