Which group of students is specifically addressed by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act?

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), originally enacted in 1965 and reauthorized several times, specifically addresses the needs of educationally deprived children. The primary aim of the act is to provide financial assistance to schools serving low-income students and to improve educational opportunities for disadvantaged populations. The act recognizes that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds often have fewer educational resources and greater barriers to academic success.

By focusing on educationally deprived children, the ESEA seeks to ensure that all children have access to a high-quality education regardless of their socioeconomic status. This includes provisions for funding, support programs, and initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field so that these students can achieve better educational outcomes.

While the other options focus on specific groups of students, such as those who are gifted, have special needs, or are high-performing, the ESEA's primary goal is to address the broader needs of those who are at risk of falling behind due to their economic situation. This targeted approach ensures that resources are directed toward the most underserved populations in the education system.