2024 Candidate Action Survey Results

Our 2024 Candidate Survey Results are in – we contacted the candidates in all of the congressional and legislative districts in Arizona to hear their thoughts on Gifted and Talented Education in our state. Here are their responses to our short survey!

To find your district(s): azredistricting.org/districtlocator
To find your legislators once you know your district: www.azleg.gov/memberroster/sarsa

State Candidates

Michelle Altherr

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 23
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My son was placed in a gifted program from kindergarten through 8th grade. His gifting was designated as Spatial. He had the same teacher each year which was such a blessing as she saw his growth and he had consistency in teaching style.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

My son was advanced for his age, so I am grateful there was a program available which afforded him the opportunity to be challenged academically.

Walt Blackman

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 7
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

“Buggies,” my gifted nephew, has come a long way in his journey toward independence. From a young age, it was clear that he had a unique set of talents and a natural curiosity that set him apart. His quick grasp of complex concepts and his ability to think critically were remarkable, but with these gifts came the challenge of ensuring he was supported in a way that allowed him to grow both intellectually and emotionally.

As he grew older, Buggies faced the typical struggles of any gifted child—finding peers who understood him, managing the expectations that came with his abilities, and learning how to balance his intellectual pursuits with everyday life. But through it all, he demonstrated resilience and a determination to carve out his own path.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Buggie’s journey is his dedication to independence. He’s learned to navigate the world on his own terms, seeking out opportunities that challenge him and allowing him to explore his passions. Whether it’s through his academic achievements, his personal projects, or simply learning to manage day-to-day responsibilities, Buggies has shown that independence is about more than just doing things on your own—it’s about understanding yourself, your strengths, and your needs, and finding the confidence to stand on your own two feet.

Watching him grow has been a source of immense pride. His journey reminds me that the road to independence can be challenging. Still, with the proper support, guidance, and determination, it’s a path that leads to incredible growth and self-discovery. Buggies’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of fostering independence in gifted students, allowing them to reach their full potential in every aspect of life.

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Yes, I support continuing the state’s ongoing investment in the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and the $850K allocated for universal screening of second graders in Arizona public schools for gifted education. This funding ensures gifted students receive the specialized education they need to thrive. However, we can further improve the program by taking the following steps:

1. Increase Funding for the “G” Weight: Adjust the funding levels to reflect better the true cost of providing quality gifted education, which often requires specialized teachers, materials, and smaller class sizes. By increasing the “G” weight, we can ensure that schools have the resources necessary to offer robust programs for gifted students.

2. Expand Universal Screening: Broaden the screening efforts to include additional grade levels beyond second grade. This will help identify gifted students who may have yet to be recognized earlier and ensure that every student with exceptional abilities is noticed. Additionally, it’s crucial to use culturally responsive screening tools that identify giftedness across diverse student populations.

3. Professional Development for Educators: Increase funding for professional development programs that train teachers to identify and effectively educate gifted students. Specialized training and certification in gifted education will equip teachers with the necessary skills to support these learners.

4. Enhance Curriculum and Program Options: Fund the development and implementation of enriched or accelerated curricula tailored specifically to gifted learners. By supporting interdisciplinary programs that integrate STEM, arts, and humanities, we can provide more challenging and engaging educational experiences for these students.

5. Parental and Community Engagement: Fund programs that increase parental involvement and community partnerships, providing resources and support to help gifted students succeed. Collaborating with local businesses, universities, and nonprofits can also create additional learning opportunities, such as mentorship programs and internships.

6. Support for Twice-Exceptional Learners: Increase support for twice-exceptional students by funding specialized programs and services that address their unique needs. Investing in research to develop best practices for educating these students will ensure they receive the comprehensive support they require.

7. Monitoring and Accountability: Implement regular assessments and reviews of gifted programs to ensure they meet high standards and effectively serve students. Tracking the long-term outcomes of gifted students, including academic achievement and career success, will help evaluate the effectiveness of the state’s investment.

8. Address Equity in Gifted Education: Conduct equity audits to identify disparities in access and outcomes among different demographic groups. Funding targeted outreach programs to underrepresented communities will ensure that all gifted learners have equal opportunities to succeed.

By continuing the state’s investment and making these improvements, we can ensure that gifted students are not left behind and that they receive the education and support necessary to reach their full potential. This commitment will help foster a more innovative and successful future for Arizona.

Shawna Bolick

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 2
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Yes, my brother and I were both part of the gift and talented education programs as youth. Both of my kids tested into the gifted program at PVUSD. My daughter attended a gifted program at Sunrise Middle School and graduated from DAAPS at Shadow Mountain HS.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I chaired a study committee during the interim in 2019. 

Neal Carter

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 15
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Participated in “GATE” (gifted and talented education) as a child.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Junelle Cavero

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 11
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My brother and college roommate tested above their grade level is certain areas. Due to the results, they had an opportunity to attend gifted classes that would meet them at their academic performance level. The training programs helped our family understand how to support their academic achievment.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

There has to be a way for school districts to be able to offer these programs to these students.

Janeen Connolly

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 8
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My oldest daughter was accepted into the Tempe District #3 PACE program. She participated grades 3 – 6.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Quantá Crews

Congressional Candidate (D)
School District: Phoenix Union High School District
Legislative District: 23
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I am intimately familiar with the journey of gifted students and the diverse support needs they require to be successful.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I support the gifted student program and truly believe all children are gifted in their own way. Thank you

Ari Daniel Bradshaw

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 2
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I was in gifted education during my time in public schools. I also took part in the 2E program at Mohave Middle School for a year.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I support our gifted community!

Skyla Edwards

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 26
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My older brother was a gifted child. The school system missed an opportunity to cultivate a necessary asset to society. He chose a military pathway in order to extend his education. He endured significant hardship through Desert Storm. He emerged from the military with a deep calling towards renewable energy invention but has failed to move his ideas forward for the rest of society. I believe had early identification of his potential been met and nurtured he would have had the skills to translate his ideas to useful tools for us all to benefit from.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Thank you for sending me this survey

Mitzi Epstein

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 12
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

When I went to school, students were not identified as gifted. We had honors classes – if we were lucky. As an adult, I applied for and became a member of Mensa. As an advocate for strong public schools, I’ve spoken with probably many hundreds of parents about their children’s specific learning needs. Some schools provide simply advanced work for gifted students, while others require more work for gifted students. I have heard many parents say –and I understand it myself — that misses the point. Gifted students want to understand more deeply, and they want to learn in ways that support their creativity as well as their drive and curiosity to learn more details. I liken it to building with bricks. Standard teaching shows students how to build a wall one row at a time. Gifted students start building and in very short order are building a fountain, and they need teachers that can provide support for that drive and creativity.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Gifted and talented students need advocates at the state legislature. I am very glad you are doing this work! I look forward to learning more and working with you, to keep updated in optimal teaching approaches.

For one example, I’d love to hear your group’s perspective on how much and whether team-teaching is providing a way for GAT students to achieve more, learn more deeply, feel challenged enough, and be in a supportive social/emotional group. For example, the SPARK school in Kyrene Elementary District is designed for lots of project learning and allowing students to follow their curiosity.

Barbara Fike

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 28
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I was in gifted or honors classes in school, and both of my children were enrolled in gifted programs. I had a gifted endorsement on my teaching certificate, and taught a gifted program for a few years. I know that giftedness is shows up across the spectrum of students, and needs to be nurtured as special education.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Gifted students need support not only academically, but socially as well.

Brian Garcia

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 8
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

When I served on the school board, I worked to increase screening and identifying gifted learners. In addition, increasing more course offerings to provide more opportunities for gifted students.

Karen Gresham

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 4
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

As a school board member, it is important that all our students get the education they need. We have advanced services as well as a separate program for highly gifted students. As a parent, my children have benefitted from gifted and honors/AP programs throughout their years in public school.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I would like to see more universal screening at multiple grades/ages

Matt Gress

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 4
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I was in the talented & gifted program. My mother served on the T&G committee, but I can’t really remember any significant changes in curriculum. My school did send me to high school leadership conferences.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Our schools need to be places where ALL students can thrive and reach their own potential.

Nancy Hartl

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 7
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I have a friend with an uncanny memory for specific details. She graduated high school 2 years ahead of her piers.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

There are pros and cons to all such programs, including this one. The long-term benefits to these children must be balanced with the cost and impact on the other children. There needs to be an equivalent program for the more intellectually challenged children to reach their maximum potential, too.

Deborah Howard

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 27
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

No

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Thank you for the information and opportunity to respond.

Helen Hunter

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 10
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

As I recognized the need for interventions, enouragement, and support, I provided one on one and/or small group extracurricum assignments and activities. i also researched oprtions and resources for gifted students and utilized assessment and evaluative tools to develop lesson plans. I continued to provide ongoing information and guidence to direct the students toward entities (insntitutions, organizations, and funding sources) that would nourish and support their academic, social, and clinical/therapeutic needs.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Eudcation and funding for gifted AZ students not only uplifts students of all cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrouds, it provides talent amd pathways to enhance and improve Arizona’s diverse communities and prolific growth.

Roxana Holzapfel

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 8
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

No

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Lauren Kuby

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 8
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My two daughters, Nora and Oliva (who are now 36 and 33, respectively) were part of the PACE program in the Tempe Elementary School District. They both greatly enjoyed the curriculum, but were not thrilled to be removed from the classroom and go elsewhere for the day. I believe that the program changed to accomodate students in their home school.

My personal understanding of a gifted student is one who shows a keen aptitude and thirst in one or more disciplnes (or they could be gifted in athletics or a nonacedemic subject) and thrives when their appetite for more knowledge or expertise is fed.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Thank you for doing the work you do!

Vince Leach

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 17
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Very talented students, both in STEM and non STEM fields.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Christine Marsh

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 4
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I had the honor of teaching the 6th-8th grade gifted classes at Cheyenne (Scottsdale Unified) for three years, ending in 2023 when I moved back to teaching at Chaparral HS. I also taught gifted students at Chaparral for over 20 years. We didn’t call it “gifted” instruction, but almost all of the gifted students were placed in advanced classes, which is what I taught.

In order to teach gifted classes at Cheyenne, I got my gifted endorsement through ADE.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Mary Ann Mendoza

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 23
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Two of my grandsons were in this category and the frustration of identifying laziness vs boredom was a challenge for my son and his wife with the schools.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Identifying gifted students offers a child a successful education vs one of frustration.

J’aime Morgaine

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 30

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Myself and my niece

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Leonard ‘Len’ Rosenblum

Congressional Candidate (R)
Legislative District: 18
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Student who achieves above grade level and more quickly understand concepts.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Teachers should be able to detect gifted students at every age, not just grade 2. For example new students to AZ in grade 3 should be assessed for proper instructional level. All students should be appropriately challenged academically throughout their K-12 years.

Mariana Sandoval

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 23
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Alan Smith

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 15
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Our son was creative from the very beginning. He tested high on his IQ. Some teachers loved him for it and others struggled. He would get into trouble when he became bored. He needed some challenges which some teachers understood and others did not. Unfortunately, I transferred several times and he never had consistency for his gifts.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I like the idea of identifying gifted learners in 2nd grade and seminars for parents, teachers and interested stakeholders. I would definitely support your good work. I hope you also do outreach for all grades and consider transfers into different school districts. Thank you for your work.

Marcia Smith

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 1
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My daughter was new to our public school in second grade. She was tested and offered the opportunity to join the gifted and talented program for reading. We were happy to offer her this opportunity to join a group of kids who loved to read as much as she did. I questioned, however, why they did not offer her the same opportunity in math, where her test scores were even higher. The school agreed she should be offered the opportunity to be recognized as gifted and talented in math. Today, more than 25 years later, she is a brilliant data analyst and nationally recognized for her contributions to this field in her industry. I believe her exposure to math and data analytics in this small-group setting led to her passion for discovering useful information in a large data set.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

As Senator Warnock recently said, “I need all of my neighbor’s children to be okay.” We need to encourage all children to reach their full potential in all disciplines through a comprehensive universal screening program.

Stacey Travers

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 12
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I have a daughter who is suspected to be gifted. She is currently in 1st grade.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

Yes

Tom Tzitzura

Congressional Candidate (D)
Legislative District: 29
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

These are the young people that surpass their peers by an extensive margin in the academic and artistic disciplines. There are those who outpace their peers in maturity and understanding of life’s mysteries and intricate webs of society. However, they also will have their weaknesses and issues like every other young person. Some issues minor and some requiring support and guidance. I attended a school with talented and gifted students. During my years as a teacher, I considered some of the students that came through my classes as talented and gifted. They were exceptional.

Would you support continuing the state’s ongoing investment of the “G” weight for identified gifted learners in the school finance formula and $850K to support universal screening of second graders in AZ public schools for gifted education?

No

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Life is Life. Those who are gifted will rise to the top and be noticed. Teachers and leaders who encounter these gifted young people must and often do inform these young people of their talents and what or where they can go in life with such attributes. It is up to these young people to determine if they wish to enter the spotlight or live life on their own terms.

Federal Candidates

Alan Aversa

Congressional Candidate (G)
Congressional District: 3
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

I remember when I was in 5th grade, I was taken out of the main classroom to do “TAG” math and reading.

Do you support sustaining or expanding the federal investment for the Javits Education Grant for Gifted Education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

All students should be challenged and become better, regardless their initial skill levels.

Sarah Williams

Senate Candidate (D)
Congressional District: 28
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

My first and third child placed in the gifted program at school. They were in the public school system in Mesa Arizona.

Do you support sustaining or expanding the federal investment for the Javits Education Grant for Gifted Education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

I believe that gifted children should have the opportunity to learn in ways that truly suit their unique abilities and needs. Unfortunately, public schools often face limitations, like standardized curriculums, large class sizes, and a lack of specialized resources, which means they may not fully cater to gifted students. As a result, these kids might not be challenged or engaged in the most effective way, which can hold back their intellectual and creative growth. It’s important to me that we advocate for more flexible, tailored educational options that allow gifted students to thrive, whether that’s through specialized programs, alternative learning environments, or personalized curricula that can adapt to their pace and interests.

Amish Shah

Congressional Candidate (D)
Congressional District: 1
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Do you support sustaining or expanding the federal investment for the Javits Education Grant for Gifted Education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?

Kirsten Engel

Senate Candidate (D)
Congressional District: 6
Campaign Website

Have you had personal experience with a gifted student? (Yourself, a relative or a friend?)

Yes

Please give a brief explanation of your understanding of gifted education, based on your experience.

Gifted students are students who grasp concepts quickly and generally love being challenged. As a result, it can sometimes be difficult for a teacher to teach to gifted and nongifted students simultaneously without additional help and resources.

Do you support sustaining or expanding the federal investment for the Javits Education Grant for Gifted Education?

Yes

Any Additional Comments You Would Like to Add?alan avealanala

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