Chuck Grassley: “I rise in support of the Cochran amendment to the Better Education for Students and Teachers Act. Specifically, I would…”

“I rise in support of the Cochran amendment to the Better Education for Students and Teachers Act. Specifically, I would like to speak to two elements of this amendment that are of particular importance to me and my State of Iowa. I would first like to speak to a portion of this amendment that address an often overlooked segment of our student population, gifted and talented children. There are approximately three million children in the United States who are considered gifted and talented. It is important to point out that these gifted and talented children do not simply possess an extraordinary level of intelligence, but they actually have a unique way of thinking and learning. Gifted and talented children look at the world differently and often have a different way of interacting socially. As a result, gifted and talented students have different educational needs from other students. These remarkable children have enormous potential. Today's gifted and talented child may grow up to become a leader in the field of science or a world-renowned performer. However, this will not happen automatically. Gifted and talented children need to be challenged and their unique skills must be nurtured. Currently, many gifted and talented children do not receive the educational programs and services they need to live up to their potential.”