The Smart Student in Public Schools

Public school laws dictate how schools teach students. For instance, if a child has special needs, the school must provide him with an assessment. If he qualifies for services, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act mandates he receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Lawyers, counselors, teachers and special education advocates will help parents and the student obtain and utilize tools and programs. The law is also on the student's side to help him reach his educational goals. These are the proper actions, and an improvement from when schools sent special education students to a secluded room or a separate building. Special education students once floundered in the system, and thankfully no longer do. However, it is time to look at another group of needy students.

'Gifted' was a term attached to students with high IQ scores years ago. The term 'gifted' raises problems in education, as professionals believe the term should be reserved for extreme cases. Very few students are therefore technically gifted, but many are advanced. When teachers and parents recognize these advanced students, they place them in the highest track schedule. Fortunate schools are able to meet their needs in other ways, such as creating an individualized plan. Extremely fortunate districts have a specialized school. Parents may have the financial means to pay for a private or focused school.

Naturally, not all advanced students have such luxuries. When advanced students find the highest track boring, they remain unchallenged, and lose time to develop necessary skills and eventually, to increase their knowledge. Other times, advanced students act out in class and fall into a pattern of seeking attention, normally by negative means. Bored, unmotivated and generally dissatisfied with education? There are plenty of reasons that the education system must address a lack of attention for advanced students. Advanced students have rights as well.

Why does our education system fail to help these students? Unlike special education students, the law does not help advanced students. Those students are smart, and they do not need the "playing field" leveled. They need it raised. Until the law catches up, the education system often hurts these students. Sadly, advanced students should become the world's scientists, doctors, explorers and leaders. First, though, they must not be bored in school.

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