So a school board members objection to this is it will attract good students? Please tell me he is kidding!

Friends, I know that everything posted here thus far was said with the best intentions, but please do not bring other student groups into this debate. For obvious reasons, it's important that we don't start down that slippery slope of pitting one program against another. I'm sure we all agree that every child deserves a complete education.

The Challenge Program is approximately 20 years old, and I would love to see a list of the accomplishments of its alumni. The data would probably speak for itself!

I'm sorry, aren't the schools in the business of education? Apparently one board member thinks that means same education for all regardless of level. What a pity.

I agree completely with ipcmom and proartist. I would be interested in knowing the average per student cost for educating the various types of students in the school system; average, special needs and gifted or talented.

If you support the expansion of the Challenge program, please write, email, or phone the school board members, or make a citizens comment at the board meeting. It is especially useful to hear from community members who *don't* have a student in the program but appreciate the value of this program to Janesville.

This is a MUST for the School District of Janesville. It is Special Education and if you mainstream these gifted students, you stunt possibility and stunt your own community. Board members...Vote YES!

As a therapist of 30 years, I will tell you about gifted children. 1. They learn differently and need specialized instruction. 2. They are disproportionately represented in substance abuse treatment because they are bored and tired of being "weird". 3. They are the scientists, researchers, and leaders of tomorrow. They deserve at LEAST as much help as a CP child who will never speak, walk, or contribute to society. These children ALL have the right to an adequate education!

I think Mr. Murray is concerned about the additional COST of expanding the program. Nothing comes free these days and if that is indeed his reasoning, then it needs to be thoroughly looked at before jumping in.

Absolutely agree, luvujvl. Statistics indicate that many students who drop out of school before graduation are those who are bored and not being challenged academically. Far too often, school systems abandon those who are high achievers just as carelessly as those who need remedial help. Janesville's Challenge Program has enabled many of our finest students to expand their academic horizons and it should make us all very, very proud to have been able to encourage them.

Mr. Murray needs to understand that it is not a WANT for those kids who NEED it. That's like saying we shouldn't offer special education classes because the average student doesn't use those services. Does he even understand what the Challenge Program is ??