I have had the distinct privilege to work in my community as podiatric physician with special interest in geriatric populations as well as serve as an administrator (assistant principal) in the New York City public school system. Regarding the school system, I have had the opportunity to observe with great consistency the disparity in spending and resources when it comes to children of color. Often deprived and stereotyped, our children are seeemingly left to rummage through the dregs of academia; be it access to materials, reasonable class size, or adequate staffing. Our children's needs always seem no more than an after thought, an inconvenience that must be - at best- modestly met. A great number of my children have extraordinary skills and perception. Access to programs that would allow these talents to blossom has never been afforded these scholars. They are instead sheperded into "honors programs" that are neither funded nor honorable.  They hear about their non-minority cohorts receiving all that the promise of a good education (gifted programs) has to offer. They become dispondent and, despite best efforts, often settle for third tier colleges (if college happens at all). I am a proud graduate of Hampton Institute, Class of 1982. Through the grace of my lord and savior Jesus Christ, I have accomplished much in my life. Our young men and women deserve better; they are entitled to better. I would be honored to have my voice added to the many that see the need to make the availability of gifted programs to all students - equally - a non-negotiable.