The most popular myth surrounding gifted education is that such programs are elitist opportunities afforded only to the children of the wealthy. But gifted children come from all economic backgrounds and gifted education can be made available to all of these children.

Presently, there are a greater number of upper-class children enrolled in private programs and schools for gifted children, but the percentage of gifted children among middle and lower classes exceeds them. Culturally diverse and lower socioeconomic groups far outnumber the upper class. Statistically, so does the percentage of gifted children from these populations.

Children from middle- and lower-income households are just as deserving but are often prevented from fulfilling their potential. Identifying these children is only the beginning: the real responsibility lies in providing them with a challenging education that suits their intellectual capacity.

The Malone Family Foundation is committed to increasing educational opportunities to exceptional children across the country and currently does so with private-school partners. However, private education is not the only option for gifted children. The appropriate learning environment for any child is a unique consideration for every family.