This presentation identifies factors which contributed to the rise of gifted/talented education programs in California from 1960 to 1987, factors contributing to the demise of such programs, and recommendations for improving the California Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Program. Recent years have brought about a lessening of the program's uniqueness, quality, and substance. Three interrelated factors causing the demise of gifted/talented education in California are: inadequate funding, loss of accountability, and reductions in programming. Actions and attitudes of California State Department of Education personnel have contributed both to the rise and to the demise of gifted/talented programs. The Department's actions impeding leadership of the GATE program include, among others, eclipsing gifted/talented education with priorities given to ethnic minorities, disadvantaged, and handicapped persons, and appointing managers who have little background in gifted/talented education. Many very able and supportive persons in the Department are commended for their contributions to gifted education, including research support, program evaluation, and federal grant administration. There is concern that the program may be terminated, though an independent study and the Sunset Review Advisory Committee III established its need. Strategies for ensuring the program's continuance are outlined. (JDD)