Discussion Over Gifted Education Continues at State Board of Education

by Michelle Faust

How are gifted children taught in Ohio? That depends on the district. Ohio schools are not required to offer gifted programs. This week, the Ohio Board of Education discussed ways to standardize the approach to educating gifted kids. 

Advocates for gifted children argue that these students need specialized learning.

“We all need to be held accountable to make sure that we have true quality services for gifted learners and not just something on paper,” says Erica Reaves, Columbus mother of a gifted child. She worries children without a specialized education may fall by the wayside.

The board has had reoccurring conversations on updating the gifted education standards and remains split. 

Board Member Todd Jones is vocally opposed to the idea. While he believes each district should properly educate gifted children, he wants local districts to decide how to do that.

“Education in this state, outside health and safety, is a local matter,” says Jones.

Other board members say having standards would not dictate how districts educate their gifted kids.