So, I was having this discussing with my step-father last night and wanted input from others. I know that I disagree with him, but beyond saying that research shows that gifted children can't make it with no support, I apparently don't have convincing arguments. He is probably gifted himself and "made it" with no support (albeit 60 yrs ago).
His feeling is that, if education focuses on bringing the lower and avg bunch of kids up, that all kids will benefit b/c a rising tide floats all boats. As a financial analogy, he mentioned how providing tax cuts and services to those who are already wealthy only serves to increase the disparity of resources. However, if lower income folks are provided tax cuts, etc. it was of benefit to everyone in terms of not having pockets of crime and low income. (He's liberal and well off financially. I lean in the politically liberal direction as well. I'm not seeking to argue politics, just to provide his analogy.)
Thoughts?
