Episode Details

Anyone who has ever sat in a classroom knows that some students need a higher level of academic enrichment and challenge than others. When did such a fundamental facet of education become controversial? Amy and Mike invited author and editor Brandon Wright to explain why gifted programs are under attack.

What are five things you will learn in this episode?

1. Why exactly are gifted and talented programs under attack?
2. How has this opposition impacted gifted programs?
3. What makes opposition to gifted programs bad educational policy?
4. What makes opposition to gifted programs bad politics?
5. Why are programs for high achievers fair and equitable?

MEET OUR GUEST

Brandon Wright is the Editorial Director of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute. He is the co-author or co-editor of three books: Failing our Brightest Kids: The Global Challenge of Educating High-Ability Students (with Chester E. Finn, Jr.), Charter Schools at the Crossroads: Predicaments, Paradoxes, Possibilities (with Chester E. Finn, Jr. and Bruno V. Manno), and Getting the Most Bang for the Education Buck (edited with Frederick M. Hess). His writing has appeared in places like the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, U.S. News, the New York Daily News, the New York Post, National Review, Newsweek, Education Next, Education Week, Phi Delta Kappan, the Journal of School Choice, and dozens of state newspapers. He holds a J.D. from American University Washington College of Law and a B.A. from the University of Michigan. Brandon frequently appears on radio stations across the country.

Find Brandon at bwright@fordhaminstitute.org

LINKS

Attacking gifted education is bad policy and bad politics

Rigorous courses are a good thing—and good for equity

Failing our Brightest Kids: The Global Challenge of Educating High-Ability Students

Universal screening increases the representation of low-income and minority students in gifted education

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