Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:32     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
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Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


Stop using other people's children to advocate for your child you disgusting POS


See the problem when you ask these asinine questions — to prove that my kid is worthy of support — you put yourself right back in that position, too. The reality is if you look at it from an economic point of view, gifted kids when well supported are more likely to be the entrepreneurs and scholars our society needs to achieve compared to, well, you get the point. But that’s a horrible argument to make because we need to be supporting all children to succeed to their highest potential. But you do not see gifted kids as needing that support.
. Btw I hope you rot in a hole in hell
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:31     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


Stop using other people's children to advocate for your child you disgusting POS


See the problem when you ask these asinine questions — to prove that my kid is worthy of support — you put yourself right back in that position, too. The reality is if you look at it from an economic point of view, gifted kids when well supported are more likely to be the entrepreneurs and scholars our society needs to achieve compared to, well, you get the point. But that’s a horrible argument to make because we need to be supporting all children to succeed to their highest potential. But you do not see gifted kids as needing that support.


But sure let's "join forces" lol
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:31     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


Sometimes there are people like yourself that aren't worth talking to. And it's also pretty clear you don't know what you're talking about with respect to the changes being proposed.


Suit yourself, but you've gotten a pretty clear preview of how it's going to go if you go to the school board with this complaint.

More details/specifics would help next time around. Otherwise it just comes across as a privileged person whining about how rough they have it. Even if that isn't true, that's what people are going to hear.


You're giving us a vivid window into your heart and soul
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:30     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Equal opportunity does not lead to equal outcomes. There is no vast amount of untapped talent. Throwing resources at low performers won't significantly lift them. If equity is the goal, the only way to get there is to handicap the very top performers. This is exactly what MCPS is doing.


Who pissed in your cornflakes?


MCPS when it decided to destroy its gifted offerings.


Such rhetoric hurts your credibility. It suggests you don't have well-justified complaints when you refuse to state them.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:29     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


Stop using other people's children to advocate for your child you disgusting POS


See the problem when you ask these asinine questions — to prove that my kid is worthy of support — you put yourself right back in that position, too. The reality is if you look at it from an economic point of view, gifted kids when well supported are more likely to be the entrepreneurs and scholars our society needs to achieve compared to, well, you get the point. But that’s a horrible argument to make because we need to be supporting all children to succeed to their highest potential. But you do not see gifted kids as needing that support.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:28     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


We shouldn’t. Nor should we invest in gifted children. It’s all unfair to people who choose not to have children.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:26     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


That's one advantage of having the law- we're past the point of arguing over whether kids with disabilities matter.

But do you really want to double-down on your rhetoric targeting kids with special needs? Does that seem like an argument that will bring more people to your side?

I find your motives awfully hard to understand here.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:23     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Equal opportunity does not lead to equal outcomes. There is no vast amount of untapped talent. Throwing resources at low performers won't significantly lift them. If equity is the goal, the only way to get there is to handicap the very top performers. This is exactly what MCPS is doing.


Who pissed in your cornflakes?


MCPS when it decided to destroy its gifted offerings.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:22     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


Sometimes there are people like yourself that aren't worth talking to. And it's also pretty clear you don't know what you're talking about with respect to the changes being proposed.


Suit yourself, but you've gotten a pretty clear preview of how it's going to go if you go to the school board with this complaint.

More details/specifics would help next time around. Otherwise it just comes across as a privileged person whining about how rough they have it. Even if that isn't true, that's what people are going to hear.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:22     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”


Stop using other people's children to advocate for your child you disgusting POS
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:21     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:Equal opportunity does not lead to equal outcomes. There is no vast amount of untapped talent. Throwing resources at low performers won't significantly lift them. If equity is the goal, the only way to get there is to handicap the very top performers. This is exactly what MCPS is doing.


Who pissed in your cornflakes?
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:20     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


You start — why should we as a society invest in children with disabilities? And I implore you to make the argument without referring back to “it’s the law.”
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:17     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.


Sometimes there are people like yourself that aren't worth talking to. And it's also pretty clear you don't know what you're talking about with respect to the changes being proposed.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:12     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Yes, when there are limited resources it is common to go after the biggest problems first. You're going to have a hard time convincing most people that gifted and talented programs are one of the biggest problems.

You can disagree with that, but so far you haven't made much of a case that it is. You've argued it that things aren't ideal for your child, but that is very different than arguing this is one of the most compelling problems for the district overall.

Maybe you can improve your argument. But it is probably going to be easier to convince people that there are some simple things that are worth doing.


You clearly have a bias that gifted kids don’t actually need support. Fine. But in telling you that is far from the case and we’re doing a huge disservice to our society to not engage our highest achievers. But I’m not going to convince you.


You haven't even bothered to explain what specific needs aren't being met or what programs you want to see to meet those needs. You've just complained that they're not prioritized enough.

You're really going to need to work on your argument if you want to try to convince anyone to help you.
Anonymous
Post 09/01/2025 21:09     Subject: The only way to have equity is to drag down the top performers

Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:Why do people say it’s offensive to talk about special ed but so easily feel like they can tell the parent of a gift child “they’ll be fine”? It’s so clearly a double standard. Public tax dollars should support both.


I don't say gift kids will be "fine". I do think they need services. I take offense at the implication that kids with disabilities in self contained classrooms some kind of affront to your gifted child or a sign your kid is being treated unfairly.


Well you're getting triggered by things that aren't being said, so good luck with that


Here is what was said:
"We pay for special ed teachers to run tiny sheltered classes for the disabled. Why can’t we pay gifted teachers to run tiny sheltered classes (magnets!) for the highly able students?"

The answer to the question is because the special ed students need smaller classes and most of them do not get them. Calling them "sheltered" is offensive beyond belief.

Do you get there are different levels of need? That a special education student that qualifies for a self contained classroom most likely has higher needs than a child that is gifted (of course there are exceptions)? Can we stop pretending that if "those" kids get something then that means your kid should get the same thing?


Equity does not equal "same"

Can we stop pretending that this is some kind of competition? Jesus you're exhausting

And for what it's worth (which I see is nothing to you), my child is identified as both gifted, and can barely function at school because of disabilities that aren't supported.


But the PP literally stated she wants the same thing ("tiny sheltered classes") as what kids with disabilities get.

Sorry you don't think I see your worth or whatever it is you are trying to imply. I don't know who you are or anything about you except that you are an a-hole.


I know it’s difficult on an anonymous board but realize there are multiple posters here saying slightly different things. I didn’t argue for “tiny sheltered classes” but the point remains that MCPS is taking away gifted opportunities AND it is not serving students with disabilities well either.


You're at least settling back on an accurate statement.

Though, there's still the issue of priorities. Any parent, teacher, or student in MCPS is going to have legitimate complaints. And while it would be great to address all of them, that's realistically not going to happen- particularly in the current budget and political environment.

A broad call for improving programs focused on gifted and talented is not likely to be viewed by many as one of the more pressing issues in MCPS worthy of additional funding and resources. You may have more success arguing concrete proposals, particularly ones that may not have a substantial cost.


And why not? Why is gifted education never prioritized? Because people say- “they’ll be fine”. Nice people. Well meaning people.

It sucks.

The reason PPs bring up special ed is because no one disputes their need for specialized/differentiated instruction. I don’t want to take anything away from special ed. Gifted education is a type of special ed- kids who don’t learn like other kids and who deserve to be cohorted with their peers.

Why can’t parents who have to fight for their kids’ rights for special services join forces with this crop of parents whose kids’ needs are not being met? Let’s put pressure on MCPS to actually differentiate instruction. One size does not fit all!


Gifted education is not a subset of special education. Those are two completely different areas of law. There are legal requirements at the state and federal levels for educational services for students with special needs. These also have legal processes intended to ensure compliance.

Gifted and talented is a programmatic requirement, on par for the programmatic requirements that schools have for fine arts, languages, and fine arts.