The Gilbert High School program does not follow the traditional 18 week, two-semester system. In the fall of 2009, a quarter system was adopted for the majority of classes. Students take a semester class in 9 weeks; however some courses still run a full 18 week semester. Two of these courses in particular are a zero period (Learning Skills) and 5th period (Instructional Communications) class. Students are enrolled with the same teacher for these two classes and serve as a home room and structured study hall respectively. During zero period (1/2 hour) students are presented a curriculum designed to foster and promote skills to better prepare them for success in school and beyond. Fifth period is a practical study skills course where students are encouraged to complete homework or go to classes where they may need additional assistance from a specific teacher. These two courses "sandwich" the core content classes (periods 1 - 4) and serve as a homeroom / base for all students.

Although Gilbert is a continuation high school, all students must meet the minimum graduation requirements to earn a high school diploma. A total of 230 credits and a minimum 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) are necessary for graduation.

Students can access 23,063 books and resources, housed between the two Gilbert library media centers (one on each campus), and 339 computers, most with Internet access.