The report concerns the California Mentally Gifted Minor Program, in which the state, through guidelines, consultant service, and extra funds, encourages school districts to provide qualitatively different and appropriate learning experiences for children in the upper 2% of general mental ability. The report outlines the historical roots and development of the program from 1925 to 1971, reviews major contributions of developmental projects made possible through USOE Cooperative-Research and Title V, Elementary and Secondary Act funds, and describes the current status of the program. Description of current status covers enrollment and expenditures, types of programs, concern for culturally disadvantaged underachieving gifted students, current program problems, suggested solutions, and trends. (KW)