As a parent of a 3rd grade gifted student in Chesterfield County, what a relief we felt when, for the first time, our son came home and said, "I never knew how much fun school could be!  We get to do science experiments, we get to figure out problems on our own, it's great."   Our son is the type of student who would have gone through school, made all A's and probably never got in trouble.   He also would have been bored, never challenged and frustated that he had a thirst for knowledge that no one could quench.

In a state that takes pride in the No Child Left Behind Act, I am angry and disappointed that the superb gifted program could be at risk in any way, shape or form.   I know an annual review for budgets would NEVER be required for a child with special needs.   In fact, it would be illegal to leave them behind. 

Don't our kids have special needs too?  Shouldn't we be finding ways to improve our gifted program instead of possibly seeing it slashed and cut because of budget constraints?  Please consider carefully everyone's thoughtful comments.

Thank you,

Krista Hutchins