Enrollment at GATES

WHAT IS GATES?
GATES is the alternative program for Franklin Pierce School District. We offer some curriculum online through APEX but we are not an online school. We offer competency-based learning opportunities for students to meet standards in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies. GATES’ classes are of a traditional nature within a smaller environment; there are typically less than 15 students to a class. The graduation requirements are the same and students earn the same diploma that they would at a comprehensive high school. At GATES, we constantly strive to stay student-centered.
 

At GATES you have the opportunity to earn credits at an accelerated pace. Currently, GATES offers 5 periods a day for 4 learning cycles, providing the opportunity to earn up to 10 credits per year.  

Enrollment to GATES

If you are interested in applying to GATES High School, these are the steps to follow:

If you attend FPHS or WHS (or live within their boundaries*)–

  • With a parent or guardian, speak with your high school counselor – they will talk with you about why GATES might be a good fit for you
  • With your counselor, you and your parent or guardian will sign a referral form requesting admission to GATES High School
  • The school will send the referral form along with your records to GATES for review
  • GATES will analyze the information and call with an approval or denial and discuss the next steps
    • If you are approved: GATES will schedule an intake meeting with you, your parent/guardian, and the principal at GATES.
    • If you are denied: you will be directed to stay at your home school or to find another alternative program

* Even if you do not attend FPHS or WHS but you live within the FPSD boundaries, you must be referred to GATES by a counselor at whichever school within our district you would attend. If you are unsure whether you live within their boundaries, feel free to call them or the GATES registrar at 253-298-4070.

** Attendance at GATES Success Orientation (GSO) is 100% mandatory in order to be enrolled at GATES. GSO is normally scheduled 3 days and is scheduled just prior to the start of the next GATES Learning Cycle.

GATES does not accept out-of-district students at this time.