All I am pointing out that gifted kids likely have supportive environment that nurtured their growth, even if it's just parents that can throw money at problems

All I am pointing out that gifted kids likely have supportive environment that nurtured their growth, even if it's just parents that can throw money at problems. What happens if you throw societal support at them? They will likely do even better. They will be better educated, have more economic opportunities, more financial support from society, and be more well connected. Meritocratic programs exacerbate inequality and grow the divide between the kids at the top and those at the bottom. Maybe we shouldn't stop doing them, but we need to think about supporting the bottom, such as free lunch, without exception.