As a parent of a gifted student in Virginia Beach, I strongly opposed the new regulations.  I think it is a huge step backwards for Virginia and local school boards are not knowledgeable or have the expertise to understand the needs for gifted students.  I recommend a change to reinstate:  State funds administered by the Department of Education for the education of gifted students shall be used to support only those activities indentified in the school division's plan as approved by the Board of Education.