Statement on FY26 Federal Budget Proposal
Washington, DC - The National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) strongly opposes the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal for the Department of Education, which eliminates all funding for the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Program. The Javits Program is the only federal funding program dedicated to the nation’s gifted and talented students, so this shortsighted decision to eliminate funding undermines the critical support needed to nurture the potential of students with advanced abilities nationwide, further jeopardizing access to advanced learning opportunities.
This proposed budget sends a devastating message about the value placed on investing in the future of our nation's brightest minds. At a time when global competitiveness demands the cultivation of talent in every corner of our society, this move puts the United States at a disadvantage by neglecting a segment of students who have the potential to drive progress in science, technology, the arts, and beyond.
Research funded by the Javits Program is vital in identifying and addressing barriers to advanced learning opportunities, especially for students from low-income, rural, and historically underrepresented backgrounds. NAGC strongly believes that all children with advanced abilities must have access to opportunities that develop their gifts and talents, regardless of their background. Slashing this funding will leave a lasting wound on the field of education, setting back progress in closing opportunity and excellence gaps.
NAGC strongly urges the U.S. Congress to preserve and grow funding for the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Program in the FY2026 budget. The association remains committed to advocating for policies that expand, not restrict, advanced learning opportunities for all students. NAGC stands ready to work with policymakers to ensure that all students, regardless of background or zip code, have access to the opportunities and resources they need to reach their full potential.
