CALGARY CATHOLIC – GIFTED PROGRAM CHANGES
The Calgary Catholic School District recently announced it will no longer be accepting students into its gifted education program. This has been reported in the news and has been attributed to lack of funding for specialized programs.
We have received inquiries from CBE parents with concerns that this may be a trend. GATE program funding within the CBE has been approved for the upcoming school year, but the CBE is also seeing a large increase in student numbers that will continue to necessitate making decisions on priorities. Interested parents may wish to proactively reach out to their MLA to communicate the important role of the GATE program and advocate for their students.
GATE PARENT ASSOCIATION FUNDRAISING
The GPA is pleased to fund a wide array of programs and opportunities for GATE students. This allows GATE students access to learning and enrichment at no or lower cost to GATE families. Some recent examples include:
- SMART boards for GATE classrooms
- Fertilizer and supplies for Tower Garden project
- ABACUS workshop fees
- Writer in Residence fees
- Bluetooth speakers for GATE classrooms
- Chick Hatching Experience fees
- Math competition fees
- Blueprint paper for Museum project
- Tickets to theatre performances (including transportation costs)
2023 – 2024 Education Sessions
The GPA was pleased to offer 3 parent education sessions this year. If you missed them and want to catch up, links to the videos are below.
Gary Perfect, GATE learning leader at Queen Elizabeth High School, gave us a fascinating and insightful look at GATE student work. (November 2023)

Chris Radu, Director of Inclusive Education at the CBE, shared information about the GATE program and held a Q&A with parents. (March 2024)

Dr. Ana Pardo, specialist in diversity, inclusion and equity, shared information and advice for students requiring accommodation in their transition to post-secondary education. (April 2024)

Volunteers Still Needed!
The GPA is looking for a Vice President of the GPA for the 2024/25 school year (partial term). If you think you may be interested, visit our website or contact the GPA at info@gatecalgary.ca.
CONGRATULATIONS TO GATE GRADUATES!
Congratulations to all students graduating this year! If your student is leaving the GATE program, you may wish to unsubscribe from this mailing list.
WELCOME NEW GATE STUDENTS!
If you know someone who is new to the GATE program, invite them to subscribe to the GPA mailing list.