Gifted and Talented Programs

Black, Brown, and lower-income students in New York City face inequitable access to special education and gifted and talented programs. Wealthier students disproportionately receive private school tuition payments for disabilities, while marginalized communities lack resources to access such funds. Gifted programs in poorer areas, like Brooklyn Tech, were cut during the Bloomberg administration, reducing opportunities for students of color.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's education plan, which includes phasing out gifted and talented programs, faces criticism from GOP leader Forte, who argues it prioritizes racial equity over merit, leading to declining academic standards. Forte warns the plan could harm students by lowering test scores and expectations, while also expressing concerns over curriculum changes and teacher union influence.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's education plan, which includes phasing out gifted and talented programs, faces criticism from GOP leader Forte, who warns it will lower academic standards and prioritize race-based equity over merit. Critics argue the policy will harm student outcomes and undermine educational quality.