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Gifted and Talented

Identifying, Serving, Enriching, and Supporting Gifted Learners in Atlanta Public Schools

Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is committed to empowering exceptional learners to thrive academically and creatively. Through our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program, we provide enriched learning experiences for students in grades K–12 who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability or creative talent. These opportunities—available in all traditional APS schools—are designed to challenge, inspire, and nurture each child’s unique strengths. Students are identified through a fair, state-approved process that evaluates mental ability, academic achievement, creativity, and motivation, ensuring every gifted learner receives the right level of support.

Our Vision

Gifted and Talented Education in Atlanta Public Schools will architect globally competitive, critical, and creative thinkers of the 21st Century.   

Our Mission

Through advocacy and innovation, the unique needs of gifted and talented students will be recognized,valued, and nurtured so their inspired minds are equipped to change the world. 

Gifted and Talented Education in Atlanta Public Schools (APS) provides differentiated instruction for intellectually advanced and creatively gifted students. Gifted services are available for actively enrolled students in kindergarten through twelfth grade in an APS school. Note that students residing in the city of Atlanta enrolled in private schools or home study programs are not eligible for APS gifted testing and services.

Parent FAQs on the Gifted Eligibility Process and the Assessments Used 

Welcome Letter

Welcome back to a new academic year here at Herman J. Russell West End Academy filled with boundless opportunities for growth, exploration, and the pursuit of excellence in our Gifted and Talented Development program! We the Herman J. Russell West End Academy family hope you had a restful and rejuvenating break and are now ready to embark on another year of intellectual and personal discovery. The Gifted & Talent Development department is overseen by Ms. Victoria Robinson.

This year promises to be filled with captivating challenges and thought-provoking experiences designed to nurture your talents and expand your horizons. Our team of passionate educators, mentors, and experts are committed to creating an environment that encourages you to think critically, collaborate with peers, and delve into subjects that truly ignite your passions.

Herman J. Russell West End Academy offers a variety of teams and clubs to promote academic and social success. Students can participate in the Garden club, E-Sports, Technology team, Debate Club, Academic Bowl team, Dynamo Music Group, Bee Club, and extracurricular sports teams. Throughout the year, you can also look forward to guest speakers, workshops, and enrichment activities that will expose you to a diverse range of perspectives and fields. These experiences will challenge your perspectives, inspire you to pursue interdisciplinary connections, and ultimately shape the trajectory of your academic and personal growth.

Remember that you are part of a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for learning and your commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Collaboration is a cornerstone of our program, and we encourage you to engage in meaningful conversations, seek out mentorship, and support one another as you embark on this enriching journey together. Therefore, we are working with our gifted & talented development students in a cluster model.

If your child is not currently been identified as Gifted & or Talented Development, please review the GATE Website.

Once again, welcome back to our Gifted and Talented Development program! Get ready for a year filled with discovery, growth, and the joy of intellectual exploration.