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. For the 2022-23 school year, GATES will offer 5 periods a day for 8 terms providing the opportunity to earn up to 10 credits per year.  
 
Enrollment to GATES
If you are interested in applying to GATES High School, follow these steps:
If you attend FPHS or WHS (or live within their boundaries*)–
  • Go see your counselor – they will talk with you about why GATES might be a good fit for you
  • You and a parent/guardian will sign a referral form with your counselor
  • Your school will then send the referral form and 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 and you will start at the next GATES Success Academy**
    • If you are denied: you will stay at your home school or you may want to find another alternative program
* Even if you do not attend FPHS or WHS but you live within their boundaries, you must be referred to GATES by a counselor there. If you are unsure whether you live within their boundaries, feel free to call them or the GATES registrar, Mrs. French at 253-298-4070.
** Attendance at GATES Success Academy (GSA) is 100% mandatory all days GSA is scheduled (3-4 days)
 
If you are out of Franklin Pierce School District boundaries, GATES does not accept out-of-district students.