A description of programs for mentally gifted students covers types of programs, current status of the California program, and state apportionments for excess costs. Program characteristics listed are the objectives of three school districts, information program on program costs, school district participation, and district participation in a special study. Findings and recommendations are discussed in terms of school district Form J22MG reports, criteria for determining excess expense, expenses and subsidiary accounts, pupil identification, judgment and test scores as criteria for placement, identification cost reimbursements, individual counseling with pupils and parents, special consultant services, special instructional materials, equipment items, special instructional services, teacher salaries, operating costs, and considerations of current funding, incidence in districts, and summer school programs. Six tables present data. (RP)