My major problem here is that ultimately, meeting demand probably is intrinsically operating at odds with meeting NEED. The two things are definitely not the same.
True but in NYC there are 300 gifted citywide seats - the schools only took kids with 99s and then did a lottery from the 5000 (yes you read that right) who scored at eligible levels. For entry to K there were 2800 who scored at 97 and above (although only 99s get in). And as I said, the money goes with the kid - so there is demand and clearly need - you set a criteria - all these kid met the criteria - and then you just say tough we don't have seats. But you could - you just need to designate the schools to meet this need and demand. And based on the number of teacher applicants to these schools - teachers want to come.
there is also regular g+t which serves 90% and above on the tests and then you have defacto citywides because in some districts the number of 99s who didnt get selected go there. So if you are a 95 you likely end up in a regular classroom. Is this bad - no not necessarily - but when something which seems like it would serve this kid better is dangled in front and they miss an opportunity because of 5 questions at the age of 5 you can see why parents get so upset. The other 3000 applicants are usually kids in 1st, 2nd and 3rd who got 99s and didnt get in so they keep testing hoping someone moves!
DeHe
