Zohran Mamdani’s controversial proposal to eliminate New York City’s Gifted & Talented program has sparked fierce backlash from opponents in the mayoral race. The Democratic nominee plans to follow in the footsteps of former Mayor Bill de Blasio, who initiated the phase-out of the program in 2021. Mamdani intends to stop the admissions program for incoming kindergartners starting next fall. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa, who both argue that retaining the program is essential.
Cuomo, trailing 18 points behind Mamdani in recent polling, called the proposal “destructive” and indicative of a broader issue within today’s Democratic Party. He voiced concern that the plan signals a troubling trend where “the surface level appearance of a solution is sufficient.” Sliwa likened Mamdani’s stance to Cuomo’s, saying they are “two peas in a pod,” suggesting a lack of genuine commitment to improving education standards for all children.
Recent polling shows Mamdani leading with 45% support among registered voters, while Cuomo garners 27%, Sliwa only 11%, and Mayor Eric Adams trails at 8%. Adams, a moderate who has been expanding the Gifted & Talented program during his term, remarked on Mamdani’s plan, questioning, “Why take away from our kids the very opportunities that helped shape your own future?” He pointed out that the program has historically provided significant opportunities for Black and Brown children to thrive.
In 2021, de Blasio announced the end of testing for kindergarten admissions to the Gifted & Talented program, claiming it perpetuated segregation among students labeled as “gifted.” Adams, however, argues that the program is crucial for fostering excellence and should be expanded, stating, “That’s progress we should be building on, not tearing down.”
During a recent press conference, Mamdani defended his proposal, stating, “For kindergartners, we should not have a Gifted & Talented program that is separating them based on that assessment.” He acknowledged still needing to clarify his stance on admissions for third graders. Mamdani’s campaign did not respond to requests for further comment.
Despite his commitment to kindergartners, Mamdani has previously indicated his support for moving to a universal assessment in second grade, which would entirely eliminate the Gifted & Talented testing for incoming kindergartners. He aims for a system that ensures all children receive high-quality early education, nurturing rather than segregating students based on test results.
Cuomo criticized the notion of removing the program altogether, asserting that it would be detrimental to underserved students. “If there are tens of thousands of applications for limited G&T spots, parents are telling you something: They want more of it, not less,” he stated. He believes the solution lies not in elimination, but in fixing the selection process and expanding opportunities for children.
Cuomo’s remarks reflect a growing concern among critics that Mamdani’s proposal may overlook the lived experiences of families seeking the best education for their children. His intention, while framed as progressive, raises questions about merit, structure, and inclusivity in educational programs in New York City. The ongoing dispute underscores the high stakes of the upcoming election, with candidates grappling over education policy as a pivotal issue.
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