GATE | Rhodes School for the Performing Arts

Gifted and Talented Education

Our GATE program provides services for students that are comprehensive, structured, and appropriately challenging. The GATE curriculum is a supplement to students’ general classroom experience and is differentiated by modifying the depth and complexity of the general school program, utilizing higher-level thinking skills, and developing independent research skills focusing on advanced-level products.

G/T Referrals

The referral process for Gifted/Talented (G/T) services for the 2026–2027 school year begins Tuesday, September 15. RSPA is committed to providing challenging learning experiences for students with exceptional intellectual and creative thinking abilities.

A general information meeting about the district’s G/T services and an overview of the characteristics of gifted and talented students will be held on Thursday, September 17th, at 5:00 PM on campus. The referral form is available at the button below, and physical copies will be available during the meeting.

Anyone wishing to refer a student attending Rhodes School for the Performing Arts in Kindergarten through 8th grade may pick up or request a copy of the referral form at their school office after September 17. Please complete this form or return to the school by October 20, 2026.

Contact the GT Administrator, Mrs. Kenitra Bennett-Edwards, via email at kbennett@rhodesschool.org or by phone at 346-443-2590.

Parent Permission to Test G/T Referral Form

Who Qualifies for GATE?

The purpose of GATE is to enable identified students to reach their intellectual potential by providing them with opportunities and experiences that will challenge and further develop their thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving skills (both in and out of the classroom).

As you know, in the classroom you will see a wide range of skills, motivation, and ability. While most students can be serviced in the classroom with differentiated instruction, some students will show a higher level of intellectual ability.

There is a significant difference between the “bright” child and the “gifted” child. Please see the table below for these significant differences and characteristics that may help you ascertain whether or not a student might meet the characteristics to be tested.