Gate Program
Student Testimonials
Student Testimonials
Meet the GATE Teachers
Joseph Gillum - 3rd Grade
Joseph Gillum began his teaching career twenty-one years ago. After teaching Science and History to fifth through eighth graders in the Republic of the Marshall Islands for two years, Mr. Gillum returned to his hometown of Modesto. He taught Kindergarten and third grade at Saint Stanislaus School for eight years. This will be Mr. Gillum's twelfth year in the district and tenth year teaching within the Gifted and Talented Program.
He received his Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies at CSU Stanislaus with a minor in Science. In 2016, he earned his GATE teaching certificate from San Diego State University. Before teaching at Stanislaus Union School District, Mr. Gillum spent time working and teaching at US Space Camp in Mountain View, California, and lived abroad for a short time in Cape Verde, Africa.
Mr. Gillum spends much of his free time with his family, traveling, hiking, and reading about current events. He looks forward to continuing with the GATE community at Agnes Baptist and working closely with both students and parents.
Alexiz Smith - 4th Grade
Alexiz Smith has been teaching at the elementary level for seven years. This will be Mrs. Smith's third year teaching at Agnes Baptist. She is greatly looking forward to being a part of the GATE team this year and working with 4th-grade GATE students.
Mrs. Smith earned her Masters in Education in 2020. She continues to pursue educational opportunities and professional development including a GATE certification.
In her free time, Mrs. Smith enjoys spending time with her family including her husband and 2-year-old son. She enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors when possible.
Lisa Wu - 5th Grade
Lisa Wu has 13 years of teaching experience, teaching 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th grade. She is excited to continue teaching in Stanislaus Union at Agnes Baptist team this year. She looks forward to challenging her new students in the GATE program as well as creating a positive culture of kindness, respect, and acceptance. Ms. Wu strives to build relationships with each individual student and guide them to be the best that they can be.
Ms. Wu holds her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, earned her GATE teaching certification this summer, and looks forward to participating in other ongoing professional development.
While Ms. Wu is not teaching; she enjoys spending time with her family, including her 6 year old daughter, and participating in many outdoor activities including rock climbing, hiking, and disc golf.
Lisa Powell - 6th Grade
Lisa Powell has 9 years of teaching experience in 1st, 3rd, and 6th grade. She is excited to continue teaching in Stanislaus Union at Agnes Baptist. Mrs. Powell has a passion for cultivating a growth mindset and creating a positive, collaborative learning environment.
Mrs. Powell is eager to participate in ongoing professional development opportunities that will allow her to provide creative and challenging learning experiences for her students. She is also looking forward to pursuing her GATE teaching credential certification.
During her free time, Mrs. Powell enjoys spending time with family and friends, baking, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors. She is married with two daughters, 11 and 12.
Desirae Núñez - Instructional Coach
Desirae Núñez taught 4th grade in the district for 10 years. Mrs. Núñez taught 4th grade at Chrysler, Stanislaus, and G.A.T.E. at Agnes Baptist. She has served in a variety of capacities in the district such as being a part of the Cultural Proficiency team, a coach for Science Olympiad, and several other councils.
Mrs. Núñez attends ongoing professional development opportunities throughout the year and holds her multiple subject credential, MIAA (single subject math credential), and STEM Masters. One of her next goals includes earning her National Board Certified Teacher Certification.
During her free time, she enjoys hiking, playing soccer, traveling, gardening, and being outdoors in general. Mrs. Núñez is married with two children, 6 and 8.