Thank you to all the advocates who have picked up our message and contacted your legislators. The number of responses we’ve seen in the last four days has been inspiring.
Members of the Coalition for Gifted Education have been searching for more information about the likelihood of the Governor’s proposed cuts being enacted since the news came in before Thanksgiving. With last week’s weather and the Thanksgiving holiday, it was not easy to get a consensus of opinion until this morning. At this point, it appears unlikely that there are enough votes to enact the cuts suggested late in the day on the 23rd. That does not mean that gifted funding is secure in the next legislative session, only that is unlikely to be eliminated in a special session before the end of the year.
It is still vitally important that you contact your legislators, particularly those who were recently elected, and let them know that you value gifted education and encourage them to join you in supporting our highly capable learners. Remind them that for our gifted students, access to highly capable services is access to basic education. Tell them your stories about the difference highly capable programs have made for your children. If you’ll be joining us in Olympia on February 11, 2011 for Gifted Education Day, let them know you would welcome the opportunity to meet with them and discuss your concerns. Offer to provide more information and contacts if requested (and know that the Coalition is here for you if you need us). Ask for a response in your letters and phone calls. Thank your legislator for his/her time and attention.
Know that this will be an ongoing process, and we will be calling on you for your support again.