Planning is of prime importance in providing programs for gifted and talented students. Districts should emphasize an awareness campaign on the premises and needs of gifted education. An individual should then be appointed and trained as the district specialist in gifted and talented education. (CL)

The author satirizes the status of teacher education in gifted education, cites the conceptual weakness of arguments justifying support for gifted programs, and considers the need to train teachers to provide enriched programs for all students and to focus on the academic content areas. (CL)

Suggests initial considerations in developing programs for gifted and talented students: identification, program format, community involvement, and curriculum. (SJL)

Last year Marian Leibowitz presented workshops in 27 states on improving instruction for gifted and talented students. In this interview she gives an overview of what she has seen in programs around the country. (Author/MLF)

The paper advocates curriculum extension programmes which emanate from the immediate and specific needs and interests of pupils. Meeting the needs of exceptionally able pupils is seen as an aspect of providing opportunities for all pupils to develop this potential, and the extension programme is set within the existing resources (both human and…

The interview with J. Gallagher focuses on the effects of recent reports on secondary education in America on the education of gifted and talented students. Gallagher suggests that the calls for excellence will highlight the importance of gifted education and notes the challenges involved in program improvement. (CL)

Two educators respond to four questions concerning gifted and talented students. Topics include program development in a small town, a bright student's dissatisfaction, and parents' concerns over their daughter's religious fanaticism. (CL)

The author describes his early experience with the Talented Youth Project and stresses the need for planning the total experience of the gifted student. Models for curriculum differentiation are noted. (CL)

A summary of the educational development in the United Kingdom in the 20th century cites the growing concern for students with exceptional needs despite reluctance to use the term gifted. Government publications and their implications for gifted education are reviewed and proposals for the future are offered. (CL)

It is important to develop total "ownership" in gifted programs so that regular teachers, administrators, and community members realize the benefits of serving the above average student. (CL)

In this interview, Eliot Feld, a ballet dancer who has choreographed more than 100 ballets for every major company in the United States and around the world, discusses his passion for dance, dance training, mentors, balancing academics and performance at the High School of Performing Arts, and establishing Ballet Tech. (CR)

The paper views career development for gifted and talented youth as an organized, long-term commitment which should begin with parents, be fostered by educators, and continue into work settings in which professionals are engaged. At-risk students from backgrounds that do not foster such career development activities require additional assistance.…

Guidelines for promoting gifted education programs are offered, including being judicious in promotion efforts, developing support among different role groups, and strengthening support within role groups (e.g., teachers, parents, students, administrators, community leaders, policymakers, and business leaders). A cyclic model of advocacy stages is…

Notes reasons why, despite ample legislative provision, gifted programs are developing slowly in New Jersey. Also provided is the position statement on gifted and talented education of the New Jersey Education Association. (SJL)

Educators are encouraged to build advocacy for gifted education through the program itself by demonstrating the high quality products of participating students, and through continued commitment to public relations. Factors common to programs that have survived the economic downturn in New England are identified, including sustained advocacy…