Please do not support the proposed changes in regulations concerning Gifted Education in Virginia.  Children are our most valuable resource for the future.  National legislation (No Child Left Behind) has raised the bar for student performance, however, does not address the needs of children on the high end of the abilities spectrum. 

As a veteran teacher,  I have observed Gifted education evolve and improve in Virginia thanks to oversight by the state.  Gifted plans provide guidance in the identification process and allow us to identify gifted students in underserved groups. While localities may have good intentions when it comes to overseeing Gifted programs, they may not possess the expertise to evaluate them effectively.  I believe that state funding for gifted education must continue and state oversight of local plans is an absolute necessity.  

Local plan review should continue on a five year cycle. One year is not enough time for localities to propose, initiate and evaluate changes.