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The Center for Gifted and Talented Studies

  • Imagine, explore and discover at The Center for Gifted and Talented Studies at Archer Elementary School. Located at Archer Elementary School in the sand hills of rural Alachua County, The Center offers a unique educational setting. A small town atmosphere fosters an intimate, family-like environment where students can safely imagine, explore and discover the wonders of learning.

    Our focus is on meeting the needs of gifted and talented students academically and socially in an immersive full day experience.  The Center teaches leadership skills through classroom activities and school community projects.

    Our students participate in science labs multiple times a week in a co-teach model with a certified gifted teacher to further enrich them.  Students also attend weekly spanish class with a certified Spanish instructor.  All teachers in The Center are fully gifted endorsed or working towards endorsement.  

    Please contact Libby Hartwell or Liz Williamson at (352) 495-2111 if you have any questions about our Magnet Program.

Selection Criteria

  • Expectations of an Archer Eagle Magnet Student:

    • Students who need and desire an academic challenge
    • Students who are identified as gifted or academically talented students with above average curriculum-based test scores.
    • Exemplary behavior and attendance records.
    • Enrollment is limited, and admission to the Center for Gifted and Talented Studies is competitive.

     

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What do you look for when selecting future magnet students?

    • A CGTS student shows a need for a challenging curriculum
    • Shows that he/she is highly motivated and has an inquisitive nature

    Once a student is accepted, do I need to reapply for the following school years?

    • No, once a student is accepted into the program they are automatically rolled over to the next grade level.

    Do you offer after school programs?

    • Yes, our school has an EDEP program that meets daily until 5:30 PM. 

    For further information about the EDEP program, please contact John Hancock, our EDEP coordinator, at (352) 495-2111.

    • We also offer a number of teacher-sponsored after school clubs such as math club, art club, robotics, and other science-related activities.

     

    Will transportation be provided?

    • School buses are assigned to transport students to and from magnet and CTE Programs. However, due to the current bus driver shortage, the district, unfortunately, cannot guarantee that a bus will be available or on time each morning and each afternoon on every route. We ask that you consider this information as you complete a magnet program application. 

    What are the average class sizes?

    • Grade 3 - 18 students per class.
    • Grades 4 and 5 - 22 students per class

    What extracurricular activities are available to students?

    • Various student interest clubs, such as Robotics Club, Gardening and Math club.
    • Safety Patrol and Junior City Counsel (5th grade)

    Are there any costs associated with attending the magnet?

    • There are no costs above those normally expected of parents (Paper, pencil, binders, occasional field trip fees, etc.)

    Is there a program for siblings of magnet students?

    • We welcome all siblings of the students in the Center for Gifted and Talented Studies at Archer Elementary . Siblings who are out of zone my apply for school choice or a zoning exemption.  At the end of 2nd grade, siblings may be invited to apply to the magnet if they meet initial selection criteria and apply. For more information about zoning, please go to the Zoning webpage. https://fl02219191.schoolwires.net/Domain/92

News

CGTS Faculty

  • Grade Level

    Teacher

    Third Grade

    Jamie Dewalt

    Third Grade

    Tiffany Powers

    Fourth Grade

    Betsy Filippi

    Fourth Grade

    Morgan Morales

    Fifth Grade

    Debbie Nichols  

    Fifth Grade

    Catherine Outcalt

Magnet Application Timeline

  • 2024-2025 School Year

    January  2024 Application Opens

    • Online Application will be available at sbac.edu in January 

    General questions about magnet programs and applications should be directed to 352-955-7622