Title: The Washington Post Slams Mamdani’s Proposal to Phase Out Gifted Education Programs in NYC Schools The recent editorial by The Washington Post has taken aim at New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, criticizing his proposal to phase out gifted education programs in the city. This move comes after Mamdani revealed plans to eliminate these programs for public school children until they enter third grade as part of a questionnaire from The New York Times. The Post’s editorial board questioned the rationale behind this decision, stating that “parents of bright children want access to schooling that meets their needs.” They also referred to Mamdani’s plan as “holding back gifted students in the name of equity,” which has sparked a significant debate among educators and parents alike. The city’s current program allows students to enter these gifted programs starting from kindergarten, based on nominations by their preschool teachers and meeting other criteria such as grades. Critics argue that this move could potentially harm the education of high-achieving students who require more challenging curricula to thrive academically. Historically, there has been a longstanding debate over whether gifted programs are necessary or beneficial for all children. Some believe these programs provide an essential platform for nurturing talent and ensuring that bright minds receive the support they need to excel in their studies. On the other hand, others argue that such programs create divisions within schools and may lead to social inequality by providing additional resources only to those deemed “gifted.” The implications of Mamdani’s proposal are significant as it could set a precedent for future educational policies if he were to become mayor. If implemented, this change would affect thousands of students across New York City who currently benefit from these specialized programs. It remains to be seen how the public will respond to this issue and whether there will be any backlash against Mamdani’s campaign due to his stance on gifted education. As an educator myself, I believe that every child deserves access to quality education tailored to their individual needs and abilities. While it is essential to address issues of equity in our schools, we must also ensure that high-achieving students receive the support they need to reach their full potential. Phasing out gifted programs may not be the answer; instead, we should focus on creating inclusive environments where all children can thrive and learn at their own pace.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.foxnews.com/media/washington-post-editorial-slams-mamdani-holding-back-gifted-students-name-equity)
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