July 1, 2008

Mark Emblidge, Chairman, Ph.D. 

State Board of Education

413 Stuart Circle, Suite 130

Richmond, VA  23220

Dear Dr. Emblidge:

I am writing to express my concern regarding suggested changes in appropriations and planning for gifted education in Virginia.  I am concerned about the repeal of funding from regulation 8VAC20-40-70.  Even though I understand that this language is included elsewhere, it should be included with the educational regulations for clarity and accessibility to parents.

I am also concerned about the repeal of language requiring oversight by the State Department of Education.  This is critical to ensuring high quality throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

I am furthermore concerned about the proposal to reduce the current five year program to an annual report. This limits the ability of school districts to develop long range plans.  In my private practice of medicine, I tend to think of business strategy on a rolling five year plan.  Plans are developed annually but very few plans have such short-sighted objectives that they can routinely be completed within the first year.  I recommend that all local school division plans include a five-year proposal, even if these plans are refreshed on an annual basis and I ask that these plans be reviewed at the state level. 

I have been most grateful that two of my three children have been selected for gifted education in Henrico County.  In my previous experience, I have seen significant resources expended for those who are struggling but fewer resources available for those who have the opportunity to become leaders.  I hope that the state will continue to see the great value of developing tomorrow’s leaders among our children today.

Sincerely,

Michael Armstrong, Jr., M.D.

MA/bp 

CC:    Donna Poland, Ph.D.

          Dr. Billy K. Cannaday, Jr.