Does No Child Left Behind address the needs of gifted students?
The short answer to this question is, “No.” The law was written to address students performing at below proficient levels, which have resulted unintended negative consequences for gifted students including reduction of gifted services, reassignment of teachers from gifted education programs, and an increased focus on repetition and test-preparation in our nation’s classrooms. However, NCLB’s provisions requiring highly qualified teachers in public school classrooms have the potential to benefit all students, including gifted and talented learners. To see additional questions and answers on NCLB, click here.
