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Here's a call to action
about the National Javits Gifted Program from NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR GIFTED CHILDREN's Jane Clarenbach: Good afternoon, ...I wanted to fill you in on some legislative update information, and ask for your assistance: (1) Javits funding in 2009. The 2009 appropriations process began with the President requesting $0 for the Javits program for the 8th year in a row. Fortunately, we've had success in the past in retaining the program, thanks to our friends in Congress. Again this year, Rep. Gallegly & Senator Grassley are spearheading an effort to restore the program funding level to $11.25 million (the level we had in 2002, before across-the-board cuts took their toll). We need your help to get more co-signers on the two letters. And, we need your help quickly in the House, where the deadline for getting co-signers expires next Wednesday (March 12). I've posted the letters, and a list of co-signers...on the NAGC website at http://www.nagc.org/index.aspx?id=585&al I ask that you...send emails ASAP to those in your Congressional delegation who have not yet co-signed. We cannot assume anything in a year where the Congress needs money for a financial stimulus package, the war in Iraq, a fix for the alternative minimum tax, and other national priorities. ===================================== (2) The Higher Education Act is in a "conference committee" right now -- where differences between the House and Senate-passed versions are being worked out. We were successful in getting the provisions we sought (Title II grant recipients are required to modify their teacher prep programs to include materials to help pre-service teachers meet the learning needs of g/t students and the definition of "teaching skills" has been modified to include skills related to understanding the learning needs of g/t students and being able to differentiate to meet those needs!). Clearly, there will be opportunities for gifted education advocates and experts to work with teacher prep programs on ways they can modify their curriculum. With any luck, the bill will be sent to the President before the Memorial Day recess for his signature and then we can celebrate. Thank you for all your assistance, let me know if you have questions. Jane Clarenbach, J.D. Director, Public Education & Affiliate Relations
"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire
to be kindled."
Donna Lutkehaus |