Today in America’s public schools, there is a lack of focus on gifted students. Efforts are made to raise the performance of underperforming students, but most schools do not have quality gifted education programs. The federal government supports the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, but does not provide funding for gifted education. The drafters of the Common Core standards did not include standards for advanced learners. Teachers are trained to teach the typical student but most lack sufficient knowledge about the needs of gifted students. A national study conducted by the Fordham Institute found that 58% teachers had no training in teaching academically advanced learners, and that 73% of teachers agreed that “Too often, the brightest students are bored and under-challenged in school — we’re not giving them a sufficient chance to thrive.”

Gifted students are the individuals who will someday change the world. So that they may harness their talents, they should be given at least as much attention as other students. It is not correct to assume that they do not need guidance and that they will do fine on their own. Just as star athletes train with coaches, top students need well-trained teachers who challenge them. Unfortunately, it is the case today that many gifted students are not reaching their full potentials. I know this because up until last year, I was in seventh grade, surrounded by many gifted peers. Usually, they follow one of two paths.

Some gifted students consistently underperform in school. They feel bored and frustrated by repetition of material they already know, and disrupt or disengage from class. Their behaviors mask their giftedness, and they never receive recognition or support for their talents. Other gifted students coast through school, easily earning stellar grades. They aren't challenged, and never have to really "try" at school. As a result, they don't learn to use their talents to the fullest.

Sadly, this is the state of the American public education system. For a greater America, gifted education is the next step.