The mission of the Natomas Unified School District GATE program is to provide a challenging, differentiated curriculum which is appropriate to the academic needs of identified gifted students, so that gifted students cultivate individual strengths, accept leadership responsibilities, expand vocational horizons, develop positive self concepts, and produce original works.

NUSD currently operates self-contained classes for elementary GATE students in grades 2-6 at Witter Ranch School. Gate cluster classes at nearly every grade level are available at Heron School, H. Allen. Hight, Two Rivers, Natomas Park and Bannon Creek Elementary.

At the high school level, classes are designated as advanced, honors or Advanced Placement (AP) for eligible students. The Advanced Placement classes prepare students to take university level exams which, if passed, may allow students to receive university credit and/or waive certain course work.