TAGT is pleased to offer more than 75 professional learning breakout sessions at giftED20. Breakout sessions will be either broadcast or presented live at the times listed below, but attendees will receive access to recordings of most sessions through January 31. (Any sessions that will not be recorded are noted below.)
Thursday, December 3
8:30 am – 9:15 am Breakout Sessions
12:30 pm – 1:15 pm Breakout Sessions
1:30 pm – 2:15 pm Breakout Sessions
6:00 pm – 6:45 pm Breakout Sessions
Friday, December 4
9:00 am – 9:45 am Breakout Sessions
11:00 am – 12:00 pm Breakout Sessions
1:30 pm – 2:15 pm Breakout Sessions
2:30 pm – 3:15 pm Breakout Sessions
6:00 pm – 6:45 pm Breakout Sessions
Saturday, December 5
8:00 am – 8:45 am Breakout Sessions
12:30 pm – 1:15 pm Breakout Sessions
1:30 pm – 2:15 pm Breakout Sessions
2:30 pm – 3:15 pm Breakout Sessions
Thursday, December 3, 8:30 am – 9:15 am
Creating an Introvert Friendly Classroom
Elizabeth Walls, M.S., Katy ISD
Classroom teaching increasingly relies on group discussions and projects, highly interactive lessons, and frequent talking. For introverted students, however, these lessons can be overwhelming and not conducive to learning. G/T students are more likely to be introverted than their peers and need specific strategies to ensure they are learning. (Grades 6-12)
A Critical Call to Action: Supporting Equity, Diversity, and Access for Gifted Students: CEC-TAG’s Newest Resource
Javetta Jones Roberson, Ed.D., McKinney ISD; Tracy Inman, Ed.D., The Center for Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky University; Lynette Breedlove, Ph.D., The Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, Western Kentucky University; Julia Roberts, Ed.D. The Center for Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky University; Ken Dickson, M.Ed., Education Support & Consulting Network; Debbie Troxclair, Ph.D., Lamar University, & Michelle B. Buchanan, NBCT, University of Central Arkansas
During this session, Board members of the Association of the Gifted, a division within the Council of Exceptional Children, will share this critical document as a resource to aide campus and district leaders, educators, university personnel and other stakeholders in supporting diverse populations in gifted and talented programs. (Grades All/NA)
Fostering Engagement Digitally
Blythe Brown & Sarah Orozco, Clear Creek ISD
In this session, participants will explore why engagement leads to the solution and means of negating underachievement. Through the use of digital tools, we will show how to promote curiosity while increasing authentic engagement. Finally, attendees will leave with instructional strategies, digital resources, and evaluation tools to analyze engagement. (Grades K-5)
How Can I Get it All Taught? Using Compacting and Tiering for Student Success
Teresa Francis, M.Ed., & Melanie Beckett, Mansfield ISD
Are you worried about how you will do it all in the changing educational environment? We will provide tips and tricks on how to present your lessons using two underutilized strategies—compacting and tiering of any content. (Grades All/NA)
Rally the Real World
Misty Lewin, Frisco ISD
It takes a village to INSPIRE a child. Discover exhilarating new resources and innovative pathways to access community partnerships and bring engaging, inspiring professionals to your classroom or Zoom room! Rally the real world to make learning meaningful, purposeful, and captivating. (Grades K-5)
Using Program Evaluation to Support Strategic Initiatives
Mary Christopher, Ph.D., CGL Consulting, LLC, & Cecelia Boswell, Ph.D., Austin Creek Education Systems
The Texas State Plan requires evaluation of programs and services based on quantitative and qualitative data. This session describes research practices that drive evaluation and lead to strategic initiatives for continued program development. Interactive experiences will guide participants through initial evaluation design leading to strategic initiatives supported by formative assessment. (Grades All/NA)
Thursday, December 3, 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
Flipped Discussion Session: Teaching to the Top: An Advanced Depth and Complexity Boot Camp*
Clint Rodriguez, M.A., ESC Region 11
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Teaching to the Top: An Advanced Depth and Complexity Boot Camp. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Gifted and Talented: Minority Students’ Perspectives
Toni Gibbs, Crandall ISD
This student panel will provide a view into the world of gifted minority students. In the session, a group of young minorities will address academia and perceptions of their own, their peers, and their teachers. Attendees will gain insight into how the students have developed coping skills. (Grades All/NA)
G/T Services Beyond HB3: A GT Model That Meets the State Plan
Deana Dynis, Ed.D., & Tracy Fisher, Coppell ISD
HB3 removed dedicated funding for G/T services while increasing the expectation of compliance to the new State Plan for Gifted/Talented Students. The new expectations and accountability measures were welcomed by Coppell ISD. This session will share its GT Services Manual developed in response to Stakeholder GT Program Evaluation, which is aligned to the State Plan and guides customized instruction. (Grades All/NA)
How Universal Screening Identifies Underrepresented Gifted Students
Jennifer Chandler, M.Ed., Shelby County Schools, TN
During the 2019-2020 school year, Shelby County Schools in Memphis, TN implemented a Universal Screening Process. For the first time, students were identified for gifted services in 100% of elementary schools. This session will examine the project, the outcomes, and best practices based on research. (Grades All/NA)
Launching Innovation in the Virtual Classroom
Carlyn Fryberger, M.S., & Kelly Miksch, San Antonio ISD
How can we promote divergent and convergent thinking in a virtual setting to creatively challenge our gifted students? Join us to learn some tools and techniques to engage students through innovation within the virtual classroom! (Grades All/NA)
The Only Hard Word is the One You Don’t Know
Sheila Griffith, Ph.D., Knowsys Educational Services LLC, & Amber Reynolds, Pearland ISD
On-level and grade level word lists are fine, but why not introduce your students to above-level words? Many students are reading above level , so why not give them a firmer foundation in above-level vocabulary? Why not replace “friendly” with words like “affable,” “amiable,” “genial,” and “amicable”? (Grades 6-12)
Thursday, December 3, 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Blended Learning to Support Distance Learning
Melanie Beckett, M.Ed., & Stephanie Shackelford, Mansfield ISD
With a shift in thinking, transform your distance learning classroom to focus on the individual learning needs of advanced learners. Blended learning offers avenues to differentiate, addresses various learning styles, and allows students to learn at their own pace and take ownership of their learning while supporting distance learning. (Grades 6-12)
Effective Instructional Strategies for Teaching Independent Research
Susan Johnsen, Ph.D., Baylor University
This session will focus on key instructional strategies used in teaching students how to conduct independent research. Strategies will examine how to teach students to select a research topic, organize their study, ask questions, select a study method, gather information, develop a product, and share information. (Grades All/NA)
Flipped Discussion Session: Enhancing Motivation and Resilience for Gifted Students From Underserved Populations*
Emily Mofield, Ed.D., & Megan Parker Peters, Ph.D., Lipscomb University
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Enhancing Motivation and Resilience for Gifted Students From Underserved Populations. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades 3-8)
The Gifted Student in a Low-Income Environment
Justin Pata, M.A., Katy ISD
Are you teaching in a low-income school with advanced/gifted students? Did you know that low income gifted students present differently than most gifted students? Come learn how to identify a gifted student in a low income environment and how to effectively teach them. (Grades All/NA)
Online and Traditional Gifted Identification Using Behavior Rating Scales
Joel McIntosh, M.Ed., Prufrock Press Inc.
Using online or traditional behavior rating scales offers one strategy to identify students who exhibit gifted abilities. These scales also help identify students with promising talent often overlooked by other methods. This session will explore the use and benefits of four popular rating scales and discuss online assessment options. (Grades All/NA)
Social Justice Is as “Real-World” as It Gets
Jessica Torres, M.Ed., ESC Region 12
Social justice in the classroom can be a sensitive topic, but if we are advocating for real-world, authentic opportunities for students, social justice is a must. Empower and advocate for your students to use their voices and the products of their research to ignite change. (Grades All/NA)
Using the State Plan as an Evaluation Tool
Kristin Majority, M.Ed., University of North Texas, & Janet Helmcamp, M.Ed., Cleburne ISD
This session will review the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students that was updated in 2019. District leaders, and those responsible for programming decisions and implementation, will be given the tools to evaluate their programs and set goals for improvement. (Grades All/NA)
Thursday, December 3, 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm
Curriculum Compacting: An Example in Action
Cindy Gilson, Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Curriculum compacting is an effective approach for organizing differentiated learning experiences for diverse gifted learners, especially during times of online learning. The presenter will build upon attendees’ prior knowledge about curriculum compacting by applying the 8-step process to a case study of a gifted student and attendees’ self-selected students. (Grades 3-8)
Educators Perceptions Following HB3
Jaret Hodges, Ph.D., University of North Texas
In this presentation, we discuss the findings from a survey of TAGT membership. We asked TAGT membership what their feelings towards the changes to gifted education following the passage of HB3. As a whole, educators were more optimistic to the future of their districts than the state as a whole. (Grades All/NA)
Hattie’s Research for Leaders
Lori Gracey, TCEA
Dr. John Hattie’s groundbreaking research into what works in education doesn’t just address teaching and learning in the classroom. This session will share what he discovered the research says about best practices for leaders, too, with specific actions you can put into place immediately. (Grades All/NA)
Flipped Discussion Session: One-Room Schoolhouses 2.0: Differentiating in Today’s Classrooms*
Tracy Inman, Ed.D., Center for Gifted Studies, Western Kentucky University, and Lynette Baldwin, Ph.D., The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, KY
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: One-Room Schoolhouses 2.0: Differentiating in Today’s Classrooms. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Problem Solving and Problem Posing
Shirley Fortenbaugh, M.Ed., Loudoun County Public Schools, VA
Inquiry-oriented mathematics instruction must include problem solving and problem posing opportunities. After the solution is found, students can pose their own questions of interest to investigate. Problem posing activities can enhance students’ creative thinking, increase their mathematical understanding, and help develop students’ appreciation for the beauty and wonder of mathematics. (Grades 3-5)
Friday, December 4, 9:00 am – 9:45 am
Collaboration, Co-Teaching, and Coaching: Supports for Success
Emily Mofield, Ed.D., Lipscomb University, & Vicki Phelps, Ed.D, Sumner County Schools
Collaborative teaching practices support regular education teachers in learning skills and strategies to differentiate for gifted students. Learn the tools and “how-to” steps for facilitating and sustaining collaborative teaching and instructional coaching in ways that build capacity for teachers to challenge and support gifted students all day every day. (Grades All/NA)
Coming Together in Conversation About Diversity, Equity, and You*
Colin Seale, thinkLaw
Join Colin Seale and other educators for a chance to network and share in conversation about your experiences serving as an educator of color in gifted education (or an ally for diversity and equity in gifted education) within a safe space. Let’s have a safe, open discussion on how race, bias, privilege, sexuality, language, heritage, and all of the other amazing things that make you who you are, have an impact on your career, your students/classrooms, your schools, and your colleagues. How can we work to leverage our unique perspectives to increase equity in gifted education? How can we teach and learn from one another as we explore anti-racism, anti-bias, and creating culturally responsive spaces within gifted education? Come prepared to share, to listen, and to learn from one another. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for a truly safe space for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Extend and Challenge With Digital Learning
Stephanie Shackelford & Brigette Cardenas, Mansfield ISD
Teaching in a digital environment is tough in itself. It can be even tougher when you need to address the needs of a gifted learner. This session will look at some digital tools and how you can extend, challenge, and differentiate with those tools . . . tools you can use tomorrow! (Grades All/NA)
Goal-Setting at Every Level
Russ Weeks, M.A., Mesquite ISD
All students deserve to plant learning and life goals and to receive equitable support to watch them grow into reality. Examine resources; discuss historical, timely, and timeless issues; and share ideas to ensure ALL students set goals to reach their maximum potential—in their learning communities and beyond. (Grades All/NA
Identifying for Creativity: Toward More Productive Use of Creativity Assessments in Gifted Programming
Lindsay Lee, University of North Texas, & Jeb Puryear, Ph.D., University of Montana
Research suggests creativity is valued as an educational outcome, but educators and administrators struggle with specific classroom strategies and consistent implementation within their gifted programs. Participants will reflect upon their gifted program goals for creativity and align their gifted identification practices with classroom activities and assessment practices that promote creativity. (Grades All/NA)
Leadership Talent Development: Applying Key Principles of Adolescent Leadership in School Contexts
Melanie S. Meyer, University of North Texas and McKinney ISD
Leadership development has been identified as a goal in gifted education standards. While some research has investigated leadership for high-ability adolescents, there are a limited number of studies on school-based talent development in this domain. This session will examine current research and identify key recommendations for school-based leadership talent development. (Grades 6-12)
Friday, December 4, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Developing a Concept-Based Instructional Environment
Brian Scott, Ed.D., Consultant
This session will serve as an impetus for creating a concept-based learning environment for deeper thinking and complexity. Participants will have better understanding of how to create concept-based curriculum across subject areas. Templates will be provided to support the ideas shared. (Grades 3-8)
Enhancing Advanced Academic Programming With Structured Support and Collaboration
Michelle Swain, M.Ed., Round Rock ISD
Increased stakeholder communication and support for additional opportunities and resources have resulted in increases in participation and performance as we focus on our work with college credit in high school opportunities and college readiness assessments. Partnerships that have helped fuel the work will be highlighted. (Grades 6-12)
Empowering Scholars With Student-Driven Project Based Learning
Tia N. Locke-Simmons, M.Ed., Houston ISD, Renee M. Ricca, Houston ISD, Toni Kubousek, M.Ed., Renzulli Learning, & Rita Mauro, Renzulli Learning
In this session, participants will be guided through interactive processes and resources that will allow for immediate instructional process that are: Individualized, scholar-directed, effectively implemented with synchronous and asynchronous learning, effectively implanted face-to-face or virtually, and tools for global instructional interactions. The session will use the experiences of Houston ISD as it set up a project-based learning system for its students using technology tools provided by Renzulli Learning. Attendees will explore the facilitation of scholar-led Project-Based Learning grounded in individualized skills, interests, and product development preferences, along with options for virtual G/T Expositions to allow for scholar demonstration of learning and product presentation. (Grades All/NA)
Equity in Education: I Am a Student—Here’s What I Can Do
Kathy Lyda, M.S., Lindy Lyda, Jordan Hanes, & Caiden Trivedi, E.A. Young Academy
Now, more than ever, equity in education is a topic worthy of more than just discussion. Participants will hear from a panel of gifted students who started initiatives addressing concerns from a global and local level. Participants will explore avenues to empower their students to do the same. (Grades 6-12)
Flexible Lesson Planning for Blended or Hybrid Shared Inquiry Learning
Denise Ahlquist, Great Books Foundation
Now what? When uncertainty is the only constant, adapting a sequence of interactive activities to the circumstances allows educators to create flexible lesson plans that differentiate and support a wide diversity of learners. Sustained interaction plus open-ended questioning provide multiple ways for students to share and deepen their thinking. (Grades All/NA)
Flipped Discussion Session: Culturally Relevant Gifted Classrooms*
Erinn Wilcots, Ph.D., & Tamika Stevenson, Ed.D, Dallas ISD
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Culturally Relevant Gifted Classrooms. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Policy Creates Opportunity
Julia Roberts, Ed.D., Western Kentucky University
Equity in identification and appropriately challenging learning opportunities are linked to having policy in place. This session will examine policies as well as steps to establish policy. Policies allow for equity in identification and facilitate children with gifts and talents learning at levels at which they are ready to learn. (Grades All/NA)
Friday, December 4, 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
4-3-2-1 Creating Leveled, Rigorous Questions With the Depth and Complexity Icons
Carrie Simpson, Consultant
Developing meaningful, challenging questions is a difficult task. In this session, participants will move from creating a one-icon question to composing one with four or more icons embedded, guiding students to deep, abstract thought. Quality questioning prompts critical thinking – sparking curiosity and leading to in-depth analysis of content. (Grades All/NA)
The Bread and Butter of Gifted Education: Independent Study
Jennifer Leal, M.Ed., Heather Caldwell, M.Ed., Julie Brynes, M.Ed., & Melony Stevens, Rockwall ISD
Independent studies are a foundation for gifted education services. Following Dr. Renzulli’s model of implementing a Type III Enrichment is one district’s answer to the call of action that ensures gifted students are pursuing an independent study. Student journies and outcomes experienced through executing this model will be shared. (Grades 3-8)
Exploring the History of Race Relations in the U.S.: What Gifted Students Don’t Know
Eric Gruver Ed.D., & Rachel Dalton, M.S., Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, with TAMS Students
Gifted education emphasizes creativity and critical thinking, but educators have ignored the examination of the human condition in the U.S. Gifted students learn advanced math and scientific research methodology, but they have no foundation in understanding their classmates and peers who grew up with different sociocultural expectations and experiences. Join this panel of TAMS students as they discuss their experiences. (Grades 6-12)
Flipped Discussion Session: PBL as a Catalyst for Learning*
Andi McNair, ESC Region 12
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: PBL as a Catalyst for Learning. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Multiple Exceptionalities Multiple Needs (MEMN) Network: A Texas Education Agency Technical Assistance Network Project
Rosario Nava, M.Ed., Region 1 ESC
The MEMN Network was created to support the unique set of needs of students who are being served by special education as well as identified in one or more of the following areas: English Learner, Gifted and Talented, and/or Highly Mobile (Migrant, Military, Foster, Homeless). (Grades All/NA)
Secondary Strategies: Get’em Thinking, Get’em Motivated, & Get’em Engaged
Karen Otto, M.A., Southlake-Carroll ISD
Need new ideas to liven up your classroom and move G/T students from curious to creative? In this session, you’ll learn effective strategies to tackle the underachievers and honor the gifts in all students. See how choice boards, bitmojis, podcasts, hyperdocs, and more can get students thinking, motivated, and engaged. (Grades 6-12)
Understanding Gifted Underachievement
Celeste Sodergren, M.A., Manor ISD, & Yasmin Laird, M.A., Baylor University
The issues that lead to gifted underachievement are complex and often misunderstood. Learn about the myths that persist about gifted socio-emotional needs, discover what the research says, and explore ways to help students build healthy self-concepts. Leave with concrete strategies for the classroom to guide students toward their full potential. (Grades All/NA)
Friday, December 4, 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm
Flipped Discussion Session: Examining Viewpoints in Gifted Education: The Influence of Paradigms on Program and Practice*
Kacey Crutchfield, M.S., Melanie S. Meyer, Jessica Ottwein, & Lindsay Lee, University of North Texas
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Examining Viewpoints in Gifted Education: The Influence of Paradigms on Program and Practice. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA
G/T Creative Problem Solving Versus Disruptive Behavior
Brigette Cardenas, M.A., and Teresa Francis, M.Ed., Mansfield ISD
There are many ways to address the often intuitive creative problem solving skills of gifted students. Oftentimes the very behaviors that make gifted students creative can be interpreted as rude, defiant, or misaligned. Learn to define creative problem solving, and to foster a positive outlet for it within gifted students. (Grades All/NA)
The Power of Understanding: A Suggested LBGTQ Reading List
Katie Drake, Killeen ISD
LGBTQ books are finding homes on book store and library shelves. Join a fast-paced review of best-selling, top-rated, and most talked about LGBTQ books for our students. Promote self-awareness, understanding, and an inclusive attitude through reading. Develop your personal to-read-list. (Grades All/NA)
Redesign, Retool, Reimagine Learning Beyond Walls
Barbara Hinton, M.Ed., National Inventors Hall of Fame
Learning happens everywhere. As educators we must continue to build capacity for blended learning. Through adaptability of our environment and attitudes, we can design teaching and learning practices to inspire innovation and creativity. Learning is inherent to imagining new possibilities. Let’s discover, retool and re-imagine new learning pathways. (Grades 3-8)
Upgrade Your TPSP Presentations
Deniece Frideley, Lancaster ISD
Are you overwhelmed with Project Based Learning? Let this presenter coach you through four different TPSPs for grades K-5. This session will share unit plans, free resources, choice boards, and rubrics. A gallery walk of authentic student presentations will be shared, along with ways to host your presentations online. (Grades K-5)
Understanding Diversity and Ability Scores
Anise Flowers, Ph.D., Pearson Clinical Assessment
Fairness to diverse populations is often a consideration in the development of cognitive ability tests. This session will cover research on both group and individually administered ability tests as it relates to ethnic and economic diversity. The implications for gifted screening and programming will be discussed. (Grades All/NA)
Friday, December 4, 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm
Depth and Complexity With Math
Daniel Brillhart, M.Ed., Round Rock ISD
Participants will explore how the Icons of Depth and Complexity will enable their students to grasp math concepts at a deeper level and consider math situations in new ways. (Grades 3-8)
Diving Deeper into the Research: Motivation for Achievement and Causes of Underachievement
Katie Lewis, Ed.D., York College of Pennsylvania; Joyce Miller, Ph.D., Texas A&M University Commerce; Alex Kabli, M.A., Splendora ISD; Blythe Brown, Clear Creek ISD; Ophelie Desmet, Ph.D., Purdue University; Kristen Majority, M.Ed.; & Javetta Roberson, Ed.D., McKinney ISD
Understanding the motivation for achievement and causes of underachievement in gifted learners is necessary to foster student success in the classroom. In this panel session, the Research Resource Committee will review and discuss current research findings. (Grades All/NA)
Dynamic Differentiation Through Independent Research Projects: The I-LEARN Process
Vicki Phelps, Ed.D., Sumner County Schools, TN
When done well, independent research projects provide gifted students with meaningful learning opportunities, but how can they be developed and managed? The I-LEARN Process provides step-by-step procedures to individualize the research process for gifted students, while also integrating management techniques, reflective practice, and opportunities for sustained engagement and academic growth. (Grades All/NA)
Leveling the Playing Field and Opening the Doors to Gifted Services
Brenda Fee, Vanessa Norman, & Cinda Smith, Allen ISD
They are out there . . . students who should be receiving gifted services but are not. Language barriers, poverty, and misinformation keep students out of programs. Learn how one school district developed a talent development program to identify and nurture students who show a propensity for giftedness while educating their parents. (Grades K-2)
Letting Students Take the Wheel
Amanda Coatney & Haley Dean, Waco ISD
This session will focus on incorporating student voice and choice into gifted services with the goal of putting students in the driver’s seat of their own education. The goal is to help gifted students learn about self advocacy to meet their needs on the road to autonomous learning. (Grades 3-8)
Saturday, December 5, 8:00 am – 8:45 am
Advocating for Your Gifted Child: Finding Best Fit at School, in Community, and Within Family
Donna Hulsey, Baylor University
You assume the roles of protector and advocate for your child from the moment of birth. With a gifted child, you may find yourself defending or hiding your child’s talents to “blend in.” But when your child starts to hide natural abilities, you realize it is time to rethink “normal.” Attendees will learn key components of effective advocacy and explore opportunities and strategies for advocating for their child. This session will discuss challenges for twice-exceptional learners, strategies for advocating for social and emotional needs, and how to encourage a work ethic and persistence for a child for whom school seems easy. (Grades All/NA)
Flipped Discussion Session: Leveling Up With the 8 C’s of Student Engagement*
Sheila Mulbry, Lockhart ISD
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Leveling Up With the 8 C’s of Student Engagement. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Going Beyond the Basics of Differentiation: Incorporating Creative Thinking Tools to Practice Depth and Complexity
Hector Ramos, Ph.D., & Suzanna Ramos, Ph.D., Texas A&M University
This session covers various tools and techniques from creativity research that will transform the way educators think about depth and complexity. Participants will gain practical strategies in the form of templates and online tools to engage their students in differentiated activities. (Grades All/NA)
How to Coach Your Students to Succeed, Survive and Thrive!
Karen Green, M.Ed., Pedagogy for Success, LLC
Discover the coaching process of open-ended questioning and listening deeply to reach close-minded students. This session will explore how coaching can have a major impact on the social and emotional development of students. Coaching prepares students for problem solving, strategizing, setting goals and dealing with disappointments without giving up. (Grades All/NA)
Removing the Language Veil That Cloaks The Identification of Talented and Gifted African American Language/Ebonics (AAL/E) Speakers
Lucy Houston, Ed.D., LINCC – Learning in a Cultural Context, & Joyce Miller, Ph.D., Texas A&M University-Commerce
Explore language and the uncovering of gifts and talents in African American students. Investigate case studies of AA students whose language masks their gifts and impact teacher perceptions. Engage in dialogue regarding helping students become aware of their language and the language of others. (Grades 3-5)
TPSP Under Quarantine
Jennifer Cooper, Jenny Luong, & Wendy Boatright, Manor ISD
Since virtual learning is becoming our new normal, Manor ISD wanted to give the G/T scholars the opportunity to still engage in meaningful independent study projects. In this session, the presenters will share how we made TPSP projects virtual for all students in one district while still providing structure, collaboration, and independence. (Grades All/NA)
Saturday, December 5, 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
Engaging Gifted Students in a Blended Classroom
Carla Cheshire, M.Ed., & Donna Ashby, ESC Region 7
How do you serve gifted students in a blended environment? Explore ways the Texas Performance Standards Project (TPSP) can be enhanced to meet the needs of students in a cross-curricular, multilevel format that incorporates virtual learning tools through myriad resources and activities while serving students in a traditional classroom setting. (Grades All/NA)
Finding and Serving G/T ELs
Melissa Saphos, ESC Region 6
Less than 2% of our G/T population is identified as English Learners. As educators, we know this is not a true reflection of this population but seem at a loss to solve it. By looking at simple solutions like assessments and classroom environment, we can impact this population. (Grades K-5)
Growing Up Gifted and Generation Z: Safe Spaces
Mark Hess, M.A., Colorado Springs D-11
Generation Z is full of potential, growing up slowly, conscious of emotional and physical safety, and beautifully accepting of others. This session will explore broad generational data, including very concerning trends for anxiety and feelings of inadequacy, and translate this data for supporting our very own GenZ gifted learners. (Grades All/NA)
Meeting the Needs of Secondary Gifted Students: Strategies for Depth & Complexity
Mary Christopher, Ph.D., CGL Consulting, LLC, & Cecelia Boswell, Ph.D., Austin Creek Education System
This interactive session facilitates appropriate depth & complexity strategies for secondary students’ learning. Participants will combine TEA-recognized depth and complexity strategies with secondary age- and intellect-appropriate content for the important middle and high school population. Sample problems and participant-created examples provide models for future reference. (Grades 6-12)
Strengthening Our Resilience: Practical Ideas for Parents
Folly Ligh, M.S., Consultant
How are you managing the uncertainty of this unprecedented time? Let’s explore what we all really need to learn to support our gifted children through the struggle, frustration, and overwhelm during this unusual season. Practical strategies and helpful ideas will be shared to strengthen your resilience; your communication and relationships with children, teachers, and schools; and compassion. (Grades All/NA)
Flipped Discussion Session: Real Engagement in a Virtual World*
Justin Vawter, M.Ed., Ben Koch, & Kristen Roemer, M.Ed., NuMinds Enrichment
Join the discussion session for the flipped session: Real Engagement in a Virtual World. Check out the flipped session videos and handouts before joining the presenter to discuss your experience and discoveries with the deep dive session and ask any questions. (*Note, this session will be presented virtually, but WILL NOT be recorded to allow for open discussion.) (Grades All/NA)
Saturday, December 5, 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Creative Math in the Time of Covid
Kelly Threadgill, M.Ed., Math Stackers Inc.
Implement challenging, engaging, hands-on math experiences (regardless if they are in person or through a screen) that build kids who are truly math thinkers! Hands-on discovery should never pause. Get ideas for empowering math thinking and interacting with math even when socially distanced. (Grades K-5)
The Executive Function Subjunction
Caitlin Andrews, M.Ed., Kimberly Blake, Lindsey Hart, & Deanna McCabe, M.Ed., Northwest ISD
Executive functioning skills are more than just the newest buzz words in education; they are the essential tools students must develop to be successful in and out of the classroom. Come for lesson ideas that can be implemented immediately, with resources to support both in-person and distance learning scenarios. (Grades K-5)
I’m Bilingual! I’m Biliterate! I’m G/T! I’m A Techie, Too!
Laila Ferris, M.Ed., Dora Robles, M.Ed., & Claudia Fernandez, El Paso ISD
Utilize best practices in instructional technology to motivate students, through two languages and G/T strategies. Engage students through websites/apps, especially for project and inquiry based learning. Explore tech-infused interactive strategies used in Connecting Worlds/Mundos Unidos Two-way Dual Language Gifted/Talented Magnet Program. Student projects will be presented during this interactive session. (Grades K-5)
What Is My Class Rank? Teens and Perfectionism in High School Environments
Amanda Rudolph, Ph.D., Stephen F. Austin State University
How does perfectionism connect to high school offerings for gifted teens? This session will explore the reasons teens may cling to academic achievement as a part of identity. Implications of perfectionism will be discussed through first person examples from teens in high school. (Grades 9-12)
STEAM Design for Distance Learning
Moon Hernandez, Connie Blanda, & Hilda Bazaldua, M.Ed., San Marcos CISD
This session will help educators develop distance learning activities and challenges for their students that encourages design thinking by integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM), and incorporating literature to help students relate to problems in a meaningful way. (Grades K-5)
Saturday, December 5, 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm
Design for Depth
Andi McNair, ESC Region 12
Gifted learners should not be an afterthought. Instead, we should design learning in a way that purposefully acknowledges what they need and deserve from the experience. This session will share how to design for gifted learners as we intentionally design for depth. (Grades All/NA)
Empowering Parent Advocacy With Knowledge: Answering the Why, How, and When of Positive Parent-School Collaboration
Nicole Mattingly, M.A., University of North Texas
Knowing your child’s academic needs and deciding how and when to engage the school/teacher can be challenging. However, parents can positively drive collaboration with schools to meet these needs. This session will inform attendees about best practices and will facilitate discussions on how to most effectively advocate for your child. (Grades All/NA)
Growing Our Future Hidden Figures: Using Culturally Responsive STEM Strategies for Secondary Programs
Javetta Jones Roberson, Ed.D., McKinney ISD, & Kristina Collins, Ph.D., Texas State University
The academic engagement and success of students from underrepresented backgrounds (Black, Latino, Native American) in STEM programs largely depend on curricular and instructional practices implemented. During this session, scholars will share current research & resources that support stakeholders building a Culturally Responsive STEM program for positive diverse student outcomes. (Grades 6-12)
Happy Virtual GT Camper: Engaging, Collaborating, and Exploring Through Your Summer Enrichment Programs
Barbara Epperson, Ed.D., Tiffany Sommerfeld , M.A., Amanda Curylo, Erin Prica, & Lisa Stanford-Sortor, Belton ISD
In the world of digital learning, Belton ISD provided a virtual enrichment program where every child became a happy camper. Our eight day camp experience included engagement, collaboration, and exploration while creating a final project from a choice of more than 25 course options to meet the varied interests of G/T learners. (Grades 3-8)
Questions, Questions, and More Questions
Lynette Breedlove, Ph.D., The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science, KY
“The art and science of asking questions is the source of all knowledge.” (Thomas Berger) Teachers must be masters at crafting questions for students, as well as teaching students to ask their own. We’ll focus on questioning strategies to address the need for rigor in elementary G/T classrooms. (Grades K-5)
