I am opposed the changes indicated allowing for schools to use the funds alloted for gifted and talented students for other activities.

I feel it is important for us to continue to encourage and support children in their attempts to learn at a higher level. Removing funds and support for a program that encourages a higher level of learning drops the expectations. We should continue to push our children to be and learn the most they can be.

From experience in business, there is always a shortfall of money in some project in the company. If you put no rules on the money alloted and what programs are important, then the money can be used in programs and ways that are not best for all.

If we schools need more general funds, that is what should occur, but re-allocating money from a solid good program and identifying it as general funds will not promote that program. Chances are strong that money will go elsewhere.

I feel the GT program is a good program, I was a student my whole career in FFX schools involved in the GT/AP program. Through this I met many good friends that were dedicated to school work and thought the same way. (note we were sometimes nerds, but atleast we were in a group so we supported each other).  I know for myself, that if it wasn't for the GT/AP program I would have likely dropped out of school. Personally, when I wasn't challenged I wondered why it was beneficial for me to spend my days in school doing boring meaningless work.

To have the skilled students be the ones disheartened and bored in schools does not lead to good things.

I believe you have the just of my sentiments. Please do not pass this.