Gifted and Talented Education at Prisk Elementary consists of two programs; the Primary Accelerated Learner Services (PALS) Program is in place for our first and second grade students demonstrating strong academic abilities, performance and intellectual curiosity, and the GATE program is in place for third through fifth grade students. Additionally, advanced students who are talented and motivated may have the opportunity to be clustered into the GATE classrooms as space permits.

GATE education is characterized by a differentiated curriculum. GATE certified teachers collaborate to plan a curriculum that provides acceleration, depth and complexity to enhance the standards-based curriculum. The Prisk GATE program is sensitive to students' strengths in a variety of areas. Woven within the academic curriculum are many creative opportunities. Universal themes such as exploration, conflict, and power are introduced and merged throughout the curriculum.
Scholarly behavior, intellectual traits and content imperatives are components that are integrated into the core curriculum. Enrichment experiences enhance the areas of social studies and literature. Students are encouraged to explore, take risks, and to extend themselves beyond their comfort levels. They are encouraged to find balance in their lives by complementing academic and creative strengths.

The Prisk PALS and GATE programs strive to inspire each child's sense of responsibility for his/her own learning. Throughout the GATE program there is an awareness that gifted students benefit from guidance and nurturing as they explore their aptitudes and develop their unique abilities.

 

All Prisk students regularly attend a science laboratory class where 'Hands on' activities help reinforce concepts studied in classrooms. Laboratory exercises also emphasize science as an inquiry based process. Science fair projects are encouraged for grades K-2 and required for grades 3-5.

Leadership opportunities are abundant at Prisk Elementary School and participation in Student Council is one avenue many third through fifth grade students choose to become involved. These school-spirited students want to make their contribution to our school community and participate in a variety of activities. Students may either run for one of the five elected offices or be selected by their classrooms to serve as a Student Council Representative. The elections, with their poster and speeches - which are now televised on “Prisk TV”- have become quite an event at Prisk.

The Prisk Student Council has a tradition of adopting school-based and greater-community-based projects. Students see firsthand how their efforts and role modeling make a difference. The Student Council often selects innovative projects which target the needs of children. Some recent examples of their projects include: raising money for Guide Dogs of America through the “Buck-A-Bone” fundraiser; “Sight First” an eyewear collection campaign in conjunction with the East Long Beach Lions Club, conducting book drives and campus clean-ups, sponsoring community holiday projects, sending supplies to the children affected by Katrina and to our soldiers serving in Iraq. The Prisk Student Council also visits the Mayor’s office annually.

Student Council elections are held each fall and spring semester to allow many children the opportunity to participate. Each semester the incoming students determine how they would like to serve Prisk School and what their community project will be. Given the enthusiasm of these wonderful and dedicated students, whatever they choose is certain to be a success!

It is truly my please to have the opportunity to work with these delightful young people.

Trish Ross
School Counselor

The district provides on-site instruction in instrumental music for grades three through five. Fourth and fifth graders can also participate in the choral music group.