I too am so over cut scores and gifted programs. My 2E son absolutely kills the MAPs (@blackcat, my DS is also +7 years ahead and in the 99%+ on the math MAPs), both reading and math, and is accelerated 2+ years for math. So he is able to excel in the real world too, not just on standardized tests. But because his IQ tests are always wonky due to the ADHD and LD, they keep him out of the regular gifted track programs.
Best I can tell, many of these programs want the very even, quick, inside-the-box type learners. If you have a highly creative, visual-spatial and/or 2e kid, better be PG to qualify. What I have observed with some of my friends who have that type of kid, is that even though they qualified, the programs are not really set up for them. So the administrators are right about that.
I have found programs where teachers and admins are able to see my son's abilities and are willing to accelerate him as much as possible. And it has been ok. But I do get steamed that he is kept our of the gifted programs, even though he is functionally on a higher level than many of the kids actually IN the program.
