Gifted students are those who demonstrate exceptional abilities or potential in one or more areas of learning, such as math, science, language arts, or creativity. They often need specialized instruction and enrichment opportunities to meet their academic and social-emotional needs. However, many gifted students face funding challenges that limit their access to appropriate and high-quality education.
The Problem of Inequality and Segregation
One of the main challenges for gifted education is the problem of inequality and segregation. Gifted programs tend to disproportionately enroll white and affluent students, while excluding students of color, low-income students, English learners, and students with disabilities. This creates a gap in opportunities and outcomes for different groups of students, and perpetuates stereotypes about student potential and achievement.
For example, in New York City, a panel commissioned by then Mayor Bill de Blasio recommended doing away with all gifted and talented programs in 2019, arguing that they worsen inequality and segregation in the city’s public schools. The panel found that 75% of the gifted and talented students were white or Asian, while only 18% were Black or Latino, even though Black and Latino students made up 65% of the overall student population.
Similarly, a study by the Education Trust found that in three states (Florida, North Carolina, and Wisconsin), Black students were underrepresented in gifted programs by 50% or more compared to their share of the overall student population.
The Lack of Consensus and Consistency
Another challenge for gifted education is the lack of consensus and consistency around what a gifted program should look like, particularly when targeting specific populations of students. There is no federal definition or mandate for gifted education, and states and districts vary widely in their identification criteria, curriculum standards, service models, teacher training, and funding sources for gifted programs.
This leads to inconsistency and variability in the quality and availability of gifted education across the country. For instance, a recent study found that more than 70% of gifted programs in Florida, North Carolina, and Wisconsin provided less than three hours of instruction a week. Another study found that only 29 states required teachers of gifted students to have any specialized training or certification.
The Scarcity of Resources and Support
A third challenge for gifted education is the scarcity of resources and support for gifted programs at the federal, state, and local levels. Gifted education is often seen as a low priority or a luxury in times of budget constraints or competing demands. Gifted programs are frequently underfunded, understaffed, or eliminated altogether.
For example, according to the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), federal funding for gifted education has been stagnant at $12 million per year since 2013, while state funding varies from $0 to $77 per gifted student per year. Moreover, many districts rely on local property taxes or parent donations to fund their gifted programs, which creates inequities among schools and communities. This year’s budget cuts in our district further exacerbates the problem.
The Need for Change and Innovation
Given these challenges, there is a need for change and innovation in gifted education to ensure that all gifted students receive the education they deserve. Some possible solutions include:
– Increasing funding and support for gifted education at all levels of government
– Developing more equitable and inclusive identification methods and practices for gifted students
– Providing more differentiated and rigorous curriculum and instruction for gifted students
– Expanding access to enrichment opportunities and resources for gifted students
– Improving teacher preparation and professional development for gifted education
– Creating more diverse and integrated learning environments for gifted students
– Engaging families and communities in supporting gifted education
Gifted students are a valuable asset to our society and our future. They deserve to have their needs met and their talents nurtured. By addressing the funding challenges they face, we can help them reach their full potential.