Before he leaves office, Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine has ordered a study of the low minority representation in the state’s programs for gifted students.
The governor points to data showing that while African-American students make up 26 percent of the state’s student population, only 17 percent of students in gifted education programs are black. Latinos account for nine percent of the student population, but only five percent of gifted students, he noted.
"[I]t’s critical we assess any disproportionate barriers to enrollment so we can ensure students of all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate,” Kaine said in a statement.
The study will be conducted by the Regional Education Laboratory Appalachia, a federally funded research center, and should be complete by the Spring of next year. That’s after Kaine, a Democrat who is term-limited, leaves office. He will be succeeded by Republican Bob McDonnell, who won the gubernatorial race this month.