Description: "Inequality in Gifted and Talented Programs examines the relationship between gifted and talented (G&T) education, school choice, and racialized tracking within a New York City elementary school. This qualitative case study draws on in-depth interviews with a diverse group of parents who have children enrolled in G&T, General Education (Gen Ed), or both. In the book, Roda uses a unique theoretical lens to probe the role of boundaries in maintaining privilege and navigating the negative stigma of the Gen Ed label. The findings show that white, advantaged parents strive for the majority white G&T program despite the seemingly paradoxical attitudes they have about 'diversity' and segregation, their tendency to downplay the distinctions between programs, and the fact that they socially construct the G&T label. Meanwhile, Gen Ed parents of color believe that G&T is used as a tool for segregation, status, and power. By relying on a single test score for G&T admission, Roda asserts that the New York City G&T system creates status distinctions between schools and programs and perpetuates social inequalities"--
Review Quotes:
"Schools across America have frequently misinterpreted privilege (especially the privilege of having well educated, affluent parents) with giftedness. In this important new book Roda brings an equity lens to the discussion of gifted education and raises important questions and concerns about the underrepresentation of low-income children of color. For educators and parents who understand the importance of ensuring that all children are challenged to achieve their potential, this book will be both enlightening and insightful. Now more than ever our schools need to be focused on cultivating the gifts and talents in every child." - Pedro A. Noguera, Peter L. Agnew Professor of Education, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Development, New York University, USA
"This book deepens our understanding about the ways in which privilege and power are maintained by school choice and gifted education programs. This is an important book for everyone who seeks equity and social justice and recognizes the contradictions between espoused philosophies of inclusion and diversity and school policies that sort, segregate and maintain educational elitism." - Mara Sapon-Shevin, Professor of Inclusive Education, Syracuse University, USA
"Roda provides an in-depth and nuanced examination of the ways in which everyday choices by white and privileged parents can undermine equitable schooling and opportunities for all children. Challenging the prevailing, and often simplistic market logics that shape school choice policies, Roda carefully demonstrates that all choices are not created equal, and that the execution of choice to better position some children can leave others with far more racially segregated and unequal schooling. She calls for a more robust set of public and educational policies that re-commit our schools to the ongoing democratic project of full racial and socioeconomic integration, toward a vision of democratic schooling and society that stands to benefit us all." - Janelle Scott, Associate Professor, Graduate School of Education & African American Studies, University of California, Berkeley, USA