October 23, 2007: Tampabay.com has an article about a proposed state bill that would require districts to be more open about how much money is being spent on gifted education.This is a good sign of things to come for gifted education. It always seems like states wait until a program is successful, and then they copy it. We should all hope that other states will pass similar legislation. In most (almost all?) states, gifted education funding is just part of general special education funding. It would be nice to have a specific amount earmarked for gifted education.
The process by which the bill is being developed is rather unique, as well. The sponsor of the bill, Rep. John Legg, is working with various parent groups to ensure that the bill is adequate and meets the needs of gifted families. More state legislators should follow his lead and reach out to their constituents for input and feedback. For many legislators, it’s just lip-service. It’s nice to see someone actually put that idea into practice.
It also underscores the importance of parents being involved in their child’s education. It’s one thing to attend sporting events, parent/teacher conferences, and concerts. But it’s another thing entirely to arrange special meetings with principals, superintendents, and board members to voice concerns.
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Mead
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