In Chapter 3, The Richness of Classroom Cultures in
McNergney’s Education the Practice and
Profession of Teaching, one section particularly stood out to me. On page
50, exceptionality is discussed. This is the name for the 13% of students who
aren't the average student, but have a special ability or disability. I chose
to look more into the topic of students with special abilities because the section
said there basically isn't a federal definition of a gifted student or
legislation regarding or mandating their education. Some states have their own description
for their gifted students, but there is nothing country wide.
An article I found validated that statement. David Nagel
wrote Is American education Neglecting
Gifted Children? Many states and school don’t have funding for students
with these special academic abilities or polices for teachers who teach them. This
means that if a program is in place, those teachers don’t have any preparation or
professional development courses to facilitate those classrooms. It’s
unfortunate to hear many gifted students spend most of their time in classrooms
with the general population of students without any specialized instruction. Many
schools feel the need to focus their attention and funds on students who are
lower preforming then the average student.
Following this path could greatly affect our countries
future. Who knows the number of talented and gifted students out there that
have not been identified and then given the proper attention they deserve. Just
as students with disabilities, these students have special needs that just aren't
being met. This needs to be a priority for our country and education system.
Gifted students with special academic abilities can’t be lost in the shuffle
because some feel other students better deserve the attention and funds. We are
failing them if this type of thinking continues. A federal definition needs to
be created and then curriculum based on their needs has to be implemented in
schools a crossed the country. They deserve that. Based on the text and
article, I think yes, American education is neglecting gifted children.
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