Dear editor, We want to thank the Register and Jillian Jones for writing an important article about gifted children (“Gifted and struggling,” Dec. 1). While the focus happened to be about our son, it could have been written about many other children just like him in our county. When any child’s learning needs are not met, it can create emotional problems.

While we think it would be best for our son to be in a school specifically designed to meet his learning needs, we also want people to know that Aaron is learning and thriving in the independent study program set up by NVUSD. He also takes classes on-line, classes with other home-schooled children, plays Napa Rec sports, attends Cybermill and has many good friends.

We want your readers to know that all NVUSD school principals, teachers and staff have been very supportive and helpful to our family throughout this process. Some of what was written might leave one with a different impression. We appreciate their hard work and dedication. We are currently exploring with district administrators the creation of a gifted-centric middle school option.

Lastly we encourage our community to donate funds to the Napa Valley Education Foundation during the holiday season to support all learning needs that are under-funded. Please also consider writing letters to your elected representatives asking for better funding of California schools.

Andy Starr and Debbie Alter-Starr / Yountville