This thread might be more of a vent for myself, but why do common folks seem to speak so confidently about gifted education? Recently I had a conversation with someone regarding gifted funding and programs. His statement was that "most gifted students do fine without special programs because they seek things out for themselves"

Now, while that may be true for some, its often the lack of special programs that force students into a lock-step classroom curriculum. Not every school is willing to skip grades either, so these programs are often the best resort IMO.

What do others think? Also feel free to share any other myths encountered in gifted education.