A r c h i v e d I n f o r m a t i o n

Gifted Students

A new OERI report expresses concern that the nation is squandering one of its most precious resources--the talents of its most outstanding students. While the present school reform movement is driven by a belief that children from all economic and cultural backgrounds must reach their full potential, the focus of concern has not been extended to include raising standards for America's most talented students. Many students are under-challenged and underachieve, and will continue in this manner unless their needs are addressed. It has been 20 years since the last national report on the status of gifted and talented education in the U.S. This new report provides a picture of where we are and offers direction on where we should be heading. It:

examines how our most able students measure up against their counterparts in other nations;
looks at how schools identify youngsters for gifted programs;
discusses programs and services available to talented youngsters;
summarizes the status of education for our most able students; and
looks at the future of education for gifted and talented students.

The report includes recommendations on new directions for gifted and talented education, such as higher expectations and more rigorous content for top-performing students in this country. It also urges the nation to provide better support for economically disadvantaged and minority students, since they are often under-represented in gifted and talented education programs. To realize the potential of poor and minority students, early childhood programs must focus on developing the strengths of children. The report describes a broader view of intelligence and different ways schools can develop students to their full potential, especially underserved students.

Copies of National Excellence: The Case for Developing America's Talent are available from the Government Printing Office, stock #065-000-00603-1. Call the GPO Order Desk at 202-783-3238 for price.