This paper examines the present conditions of gifted education, both nationally and in Ohio. It offers an historical perspective including a 200 year timeline of milestones in the areas of gifted education programs, legal authority, personnel preparation, public awareness, and testing and identification. Federal and Ohio State support of gifted education is reviewed. Expectations of gifted education to meet economic needs as well as social and educational values are discussed in the context of current educational reform efforts. Ohio's development of a strategic plan for gifted education in the 21st century is described including reorganization of school districts, service to underserved gifted students (e.g., underachieving children, culturally different students, and gifted females), and increasing development of acceleration options. Research findings on acceleration are briefly reviewed. Suggestions address Ohio policy initiatives in the areas of educational programs, legislation, personnel preparation, public awareness, and testing and identification. (41 references) (DB)