ABSTRACT
The United States is squandering one of its most precious resources—the gifts, talents, and high interests of many of its students. In a broad range of intellectual and artistic endeavors, these youngsters are not challenged to do their best work. This problem is especially severe among economically disadvantaged and minority students, who have access to fewer advanced educational opportunities and whose talents often go unnoticed. Preparing young people who are both gifted and diverse for a successful future is in the best interest of the young people, as well as society at large. In order to prepare for a bright future, it is imperative to set talent development and excellence as priorities in schools across the United States. Recognizing talent in all areas is essential if talents are to be developed. Talents need to be recognized and developed in science, mathematics, writing, language arts, computer science, history, political science, art, music, drama, and dance.
