Howard County Public Schools is facing significant changes in its gifted and talented (GT) program, as discussions during the recent Board of Education work session highlighted a potential reduction in GT resource teachers. The meeting, held on June 4, 2025, revealed that the district currently employs approximately 84 GT teachers, but this number may drop to just 42, raising concerns about the impact on student learning and support.

Dr. Ebony Langford Brown addressed the board, outlining the responsibilities that will continue under the new structure. While some GT resource teachers will remain in schools, the frequency and availability of instructional seminars may be limited. This shift means that classroom teachers will take on more responsibilities for teaching primary talent development lessons, with GT resource teachers primarily serving as support.

The discussion underscored the importance of maintaining quality education for gifted students, as parents expressed concerns about the loss of experienced educators and the potential decline in program offerings. The board acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the need to carefully consider how to balance resources while still providing robust support for gifted learners.

As the district moves forward with its budget planning for fiscal years 2026 to 2031, the implications of these changes will be closely monitored by parents and educators alike. The board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape for Howard County's gifted students in the coming years.