Zahran Mamdani, a leading Democratic candidate in the upcoming New York City mayoral race, has announced plans to gradually eliminate the city’s long-running “Gifted & Talented” (G&T) program in elementary schools.
Under Mamdani’s proposal, new admissions to the program for kindergarten students would be halted beginning in the next academic year. However, classes already in place would continue to operate throughout the current school year, allowing enrolled students to complete their programs.
Mamdani argues that the move is aimed at creating a more equitable education system, one that provides all children equal access to advanced learning opportunities rather than limiting resources to a select group. Critics, however, warn that dismantling the program could reduce options for high-achieving students and place additional strain on the broader school system.
The “Gifted & Talented” initiative has been a feature of New York City’s education landscape for decades, providing accelerated curricula for students who qualify through competitive testing. Its future has long been the subject of debate, with concerns about inclusivity, racial disparities, and educational fairness frequently raised.
With Mamdani’s announcement, the program’s future has now become a central topic in the mayoral race, highlighting broader discussions on how the city should balance excellence and equity in public education.
