Polis, Young Introduce Bipartisan TALENT Act Bill Would Help Most Talented Students Reach Their Potential

Press Release

"Too many talented students, especially in areas with high poverty rates, don't have access to the support and opportunities that allow them to reach their potential," Rep. Polis said. "The TALENT Act, offers no-cost ways to identify outstanding students, provide opportunities for them to excel, and help build the talent base necessary to make our workforce more competitive in a global economy."

"In Iowa and across the country we have exceptionally gifted students who are not reaching their full potential. We simply are not maximizing their abilities in the classroom, but the TALENT Act changes that and it is good policy. It does not cost more money and it gives states and local school districts the tools they need to fully embrace the abilities of this younger generation," Rep. Young said. "I am glad to join my colleague, Rep. Jared Polis in co-sponsoring this legislation; it will empower our students as the next round of leaders for our great country."

Polis is a senior member of the House Education and Workforce Committee and a former Chairman of the Colorado State Board of Education. He is also the founder of a network of charter schools for immigrants and English-language learners.

Gifted and talented education is one of his top priorities as the House considers ESEA. In February, Polis introduced the Investing in Innovation Act, to award grants to innovative schools and districts, the Great Teaching and Leading Act, to provide resources for teacher training and professional development, and the Student Non-Discrimination Act (SNDA), to alleviate LGBT bullying and discrimination in schools.

Young is a member of the Committee on Appropriations and Subcommittees on Agriculture, Homeland Security, and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development.

The Senate version of the TALENT Act was introduced in February by Sens. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).

Supporters of the bill include the National Center for Learning Disabilities, the National Association for Gifted Children, and the Council for Exceptional Children.

Source