I am writing to oppose changes to regulations for gifted education in Virginia, specifically sections 8VAC20-40-60 and 8VAC20-40-70 of the proposed revisions. 

Meeting the needs of gifted students requires a long-range plan to provide continuity for students as they transition from one grade to the next.  A five-year plan offers consistency in the process and content for gifted instruction.  In contrast, annual plans have a short-term focus and could result in drastic changes from one year to the next.  Additionally, oversight of the planning and approval process by DOE will continue to ensure plans are of high quality and similar between districts, versus having various plans created and approved by individuals with less expertise in gifted education.

Repealing language that dedicates funding for gifted education will result in fewer resources being committed for this purpose.  Without this requirement, it is highly likely school divisions will redirect the funding for other needs they view as more critical.

If adopted, these changes will result in a decrease in effectiveness, or worse, the elimination of gifted services for students who are entitled to being challenged to their full potential. Therefore, I urge you to retain provisions for long-term planning, DOE approval and dedicated funding for gifted education.

 

I am a parent of a CBG child and want the same opportunity for my daughter now in Kindergarten, as well as, all gifted children in VA.  CBG kids thrive in this program, they love going to school, their minds and bodies are active and engaged.  In the regular classroom setting they are not challenged or stimulated enough.They finish work early and find school boring, redundant, easy. 

We need to set the standards high for these bright children and the current CBG teachers and program do this. Go to their classrooms and you will see the differences 1st hand!! 

 

The education my son is receiving from Chesterfield's CBG program surpasses the private school education he got last year when we lived in the City of Richmond!!  This is one reason people move to the county. We must provide for the special needs of ALL CHILDREN on both ends of the spectrum.

We have an excellent program that serves the gifted population. Let the experienced, knowledgeable

teachers and coordinators of the CBG continue to  foster and advocate for our exceptional children.