Fate Of Gifted & Talented Programs Still TBD in NYC

It's still unclear if New York City public schools will offer a test for gifted and talented programs in public schools this year.

The test is normally offered in January to students as young as 4 years old for acceptance into academically-challenging schools, or programs within schools. But the city still hasn't announced a date. Mayor Bill de Blasio says an update will come soon.

Last month, the mayor cited the pandemic when he suspended screening, including tests, for competitive middle schools. A parents group is concerned he'll do the same for gifted and talented programs, and ultimately wants to do away with them. Critics say those programs contribute to school segregation.

A spokesperson for the Education Department acknowledges the city has yet to sign a contract with the company that helps administer the gifted and talented test.

For more, go to Gothamist.com.