Final answer:
The second largest category of exceptional students is likely those intending to transfer to a four-year educational institution, based on the listed characteristics. The importance of gifted students and quality education resources can significantly impact a nation's competitive edge in the global economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second largest category of exceptional students refers to students who showcase high aptitude or giftedness. In the United States' educational system, students in the top 2% of the population in terms of IQ are often classified as gifted. Notably, those students who qualify in the local context, having GPAs at or above the 96th percentile of all students at their high school, are considered part of this exceptional group. However, to address the specific characteristics of students, the given data points to students intending to transfer to a four-year educational institution as the second largest category, with 61.0%.
The quality of American education and the performance of exceptional students are essential indicators of future economic competitiveness. Top-performing nations on PISA, such as Shanghai and Singapore, often have a higher proportion of resilient students and may also invest in quality teachers and cutting-edge technology in classrooms, both of which are critical factors in achieving educational success.