About School for Advanced Studies
Robert Frost Middle School School for Advanced Studies is a demonstration site for exemplary Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) implementation. By providing high-quality differentiated instruction with an emphasis on depth, complexity, acceleration and novelty, RFMS offers high-level academic opportunities that meet the unique educational needs of K-12 gifted learners, identified in the Intellectual Ability, High Achievement Ability, Specific Academic Ability, Creative Ability and Leadership Ability categories or verified based on critical thinking/achievement.
The SAS model, which is in alignment with the California Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Program Resource Guide and the State Board of Education Recommended Standards for Programs for Gifted and Talented Students, explicitly supports the District's goal to ensure equitable GATE participation for underrepresented students. It is District policy that resident schools must undergo a rigorous application process every five years to obtain or maintain the SAS designation. Independent charter schools and magnet programs are not eligible for the SAS designation.
RFMS's School for Advanced Studies is designed to meet the needs of gifted/talented students, particularly those that seek advanced learning beyond the core curriculum. Currently, our SAS students make up over ⅓ of our student body. Each grade level team has developed a sequenced, student-centered curriculum, which is aligned with and leads into the S.A.S program at our local high schools.
S.A.S students learn by exploring, inquiring, and examining issues from multiple points of view. Students are challenged in a caring and supportive environment.
Our Goals
Robert Frost Middle School seeks to prepare students for Advanced Placement classes, state and national tests, and college entrance exams. At the same time, our program enhances the natural curiosity and love of learning in every student.
We emphasize the development of problem-solving abilities while promoting creative and critical thinking in an enjoyable learning environment. Whether it’s investigating an archaeological dig, designing an ideal habitat for an endangered species, or constructing and testing bridges or roller coasters, your child will see the world from multiple perspectives as they apply their learning to their own life experiences.
Program Components
Curriculum experiences for gifted learners are planned, implemented, and evaluated in order to maximize student potential.
Goals and objectives are determined at the local school by administrators, teachers, parents, and students by means of needs assessments.
Differentiation of the core curriculum through various means, including:
- flexible groupings
- acceleration of content
- independent study, tiered assignments
- interest centers, learning centers
- Compacting in student's area of strength via mentorship, adjusting questions, honors coursework, Advanced Placement courses, and use of above-grade-level resources
Application of the "non-negotiables" of gifted instruction:
- Depth
- Complexity
- Novelty
- Acceleration
Resources
An outstanding Library/Media Center with a librarian, housing a collection of 25,000 books, provides a research-friendly environment. Our extensive reference section includes a strong biographical and historical reference collection.
Our Parent Center will provide classes and opportunities for parents to help their children to excel in all areas.
Computer labs and laptop carts are available for classroom use to enhance the learning experience.
Enrichment Activities
- An award winning musical program
- A Leadership program which prepares students for high school government and beyond
- Yearbook written and edited by students
- Noontime events and grade level activities
- Afterschool sports program
- Other school wide activities
- Grade level field trips
- Youth Services (YS-Plus) programs including tutoring, Homework Club and various arts programs
- Academic assistance opportunities within the school day
Program Highlights
- Gifted students are clustered together in teams.
- Nestled in the safe, serene suburban hillsides of Granada Hills, Robert Frost Middle School has a long history of academic excellence.
- All faculty participate in a minimum of 16 hours of professional development yearly in the field of gifted and talented education.
- We offer both 7th and 8th grade honors algebra and 8th grade geometry.
- Ongoing parent education opportunities on issues pertaining to the Gifted Child.