giftED24: Full Schedule

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7:00am CST

Registration Open

Wednesday December 4, 2024 7:00am - 5:00pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

You made it! We're ready for you, come by and pick up your badge and begin your giftED experience!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 7:00am - 5:00pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

7:30am CST

Marketplace Open

Wednesday December 4, 2024 7:30am - 5:00pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Our exhibitors can't wait to meet you! Browse the exhibit hall in the Salon Foyer throughout the day and browse all the amazing products and services they offer. Be sure to check the Goosechase app for special opportunities!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 7:30am - 5:00pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

8:00am CST

AI for Good: Transforming Tomorrow with Technology

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

In this session, we explore how AI can be effectively used as a learning tool while emphasizing the importance of digital citizenship. Students will discover how AI-powered educational technologies can personalize learning experiences, enhance engagement, and support diverse learning needs.

Speakers

Heather Brantley

CEER - CTE Digital Communications, Pine Tree ISD

Heather Brantley is an experienced educator and founder of HeatherTechEdu. With a background in instructional design and technology integration, Heather is passionate about helping teachers and students leverage the power of technology to enhance teaching and learning. Through HeatherTechEdu... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword AI

8:00am CST

LITerally STEM

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Get ready to flip the script and become the students in our model classroom session! Dive into a mentor text, tackle brain-teasing depth and complexity questions, team up for a STEM challenge, and flex those executive functioning muscles. Walk away with two premade lessons to teach in your own classroom!

Speakers

Melissa ONeal

District Lead GT Teacher, Tyler ISD

Melissa O’Neal currently serves as the District Lead GT Teacher for Tyler ISD. With over 21 years of teaching experience, she has taught both elementary and middle school prior to solely focusing on gifted and talented elementary students. Her passion for gifted students was sparked... Read More →

Alecia Cole

GT Teacher, Tyler ISD

Alecia Cole is an educator of eight years, poet, gifted adult, and mom of gifted children. She taught first, fourth, and fifth grades before transitioning to focus her career on gifted elementary learners. A lover of learning herself, Alecia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication... Read More →

LITerally STEM pdf

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

8:00am CST

The STEAMpunks: Creating Equitable and Engaging STEAM Programs for All Students

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Join our education team as we share the exploration of STEAM within the classroom. Learn about tools and solutions you can use district-wide to show students what’s possible and see themselves in STEAM careers. Explore STEAM stations that incorporate hands-on learning to help students develop cognitive, social, and creative skills.

Speakers

Daniel Buhrow

GT STEAM Teacher, McKinney ISD

Daniel Buhrow is a 3rd-5th grade STEAM teacher for the gifted and talented program in McKinney, Texas. He is an active presenter and instructor, advocating for GT students and instructional strategies at the elementary level. Daniel loves to incorporate LEGO Education solutions into... Read More →

Rico Sneller

GT 3-5 Teacher, McKinney ISD

A self-proclaimed nerd, Rico Sneller has been learning alongside students for over 10 years. He set his own personal Rubik's cube record, has a room in a house just for board games, and recently became a 3D printing expert. Always a passionate advocate for gifted children, Mr. Sneller... Read More →

Shana Prugh

GT 3rd-5th STEAM Teacher, McKinney ISD

Shana Prugh is proud to serve students in the McKinney ISD 3rd-5th grade gifted and talented program. Serving and advocating for neurodivergent students is where she found her true passion as an educator. Shana is dedicated to designing curriculum and bringing joyful learning opportunities... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

8:00am CST

Accelerating Academic Success for Multilingual Learners

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

San Antonio ISD and AVID programming  addresses multilingual students' language development and academic acceleration through various offerings available for K-12 school settings. Participants will engage in key instructional routines and learn how SAISD teachers engage by design, model rigor, accelerate learning, and develop student agency at all levels of language proficiency.

Speakers

Dalia Johnson

Implementation Specialist, AVID

A longtime San Antonio educator, Dalia has taught English at Edison High School as well as served as the AVID elective teacher, site coordinator, and district director. Dalia has served as an AVID Implementation Specialist for three years and is a multilingual lead for AVID... Read More →

Cynthia Martinez

AVID District Director, San Antonio ISD

Dr. Martinez is a passionate educator and leader who believes in building relationships and capacity within other educators to provide access and opportunities for college and career readiness for all scholars. She has been an educator for 14 years with most of her experience in San... Read More →

AAS ML24 pdf

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Multilingual

8:00am CST

Gifted Identification and Service Design Alignment

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Does your identification process match your service design? Why does this matter? Selecting identification tools that are cost and time effective while easy to use matters. However, if these tools do not match the service design, then why identify students? In this session, learn how to check your G/T alignment.

Speakers

Shirley Bachus

Director, Advanced Programs, Leander ISD

Director of Advanced Programs for Leander ISD, a fast growing district outside of Austin, TX, Shirley believes the use of high quality curriculum as well as providing access to learning opportunities for teachers and leaders in the use of curriculum is critical to strengthening access... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

8:00am CST

Policy as a Vehicle for Achieving Equitable Systems of Support

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Robust policies provide a framework for identification and services. These policies should define opportunities for all students. Despite best intentions, twice-exceptional learners are often left out of the equation. We will discuss the characteristics of equitable policies before examining several real-life examples to see if they make the grade.

Speakers

Wendy Behrens

State Director of Gifted Education, Minnesota Department of Education

Wendy Behrens is the Gifted Education Specialist for the Minnesota Department of Education. Her work focuses on creating an equitable infrastructure supporting gifted, talented and high potential learners through policy, advocacy, and teacher training. She has authored several books... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Law and Policy

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

8:00am CST

What the Research Says About Math Talent Development

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

In this session, we review seven recent (2023-2024) research studies on math talent development for students in K-12 schools. Our panel of speakers will present the findings of each article and practical applications of these findings for classroom teachers who work with advanced learners.

Speakers

Melanie S. Meyer

Lecturer, Baylor University

Melanie S. Meyer, Ph.D., is a lecturer in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Baylor University where she teaches research methods and advises students conducting problem-of-practice dissertations in the Learning and Organizational Change Ed.D. program. For over 20 years... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

9:00am CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Wednesday December 4, 2024 9:00am - 9:30am CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Connect with exhibitors and with other attendees, fill up your water, and get ready for the giftED Kickoff at 9:30!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 9:00am - 9:30am CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

9:30am CST

giftED Kickoff More Than a Match: Creating Lasting Educational Connections

Wednesday December 4, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Think of us as your ultimate educational matchmakers! This kickoff session is your chance to “swipe right” on innovative ideas, connect with like-minded educators, and discover your perfect thought partner. We’re here to help you find your ideal professional match at giftED, and build meaningful connections that will go beyond the conference experience. Let's build lasting bonds and collaboration opportunities that will transform gifted education forever!

Speakers

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

Michael Flusche loves to combine his passion for comedy with his love for gifted education. Beginning as a teacher with a hobby of comedy, Flusche earned an opportunity to work as a coordinator in gifted education. In doing so, Flusche discovered that the foundations of improvisational... Read More →

Brian Housand

Coordinator, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Dr. Brian Housand, is the coordinator of the Academically or Intellectually Gifted program at University of North Carolina Wilmington and creator of Gifted360.com. Dr. Housand earned a Ph.D. in educational psychology at the University of Connecticut with an emphasis in both gifted... Read More →

Andi McNair

GT Specialists, ESC Region 12

Andi was a classroom teacher for 16 years before pursuing her passion to change education by sharing practical ways to engage and empower today’s learners. She is now a published author, international speaker, gifted education specialist and digital innovation specialist at ESC... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

10:30am CST

Get Involved with TAGT: Committee Service 101

Wednesday December 4, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST

TAGT Gathering Space (2nd Floor)

Stop by the TAGT gathering area on the 2nd floor foyer to learn more about TAGT Committee Service and how you can contribute to your association. You can also read more here. The application deadline for 2025 committee involvement is December 10th.

Wednesday December 4, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST
TAGT Gathering Space (2nd Floor)

10:30am CST

giftED Gathering

Wednesday December 4, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

The most important part of your giftED experience is the connections you will make with others. Use this time to grab a mid-morning snack, chat with a new friend, make plans with your team for the rest of the event, or meet a new partner in your work by visiting with exhibitors.

Wednesday December 4, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

11:00am CST

A Conversation with e.E. Charlton-Trujillo (Live Podcast Recording)

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Here more of E's story in conversation with Michael Flusche.

Mexican American author, filmmaker and youth literacy activist e.E. Charlton-Trujillo is the recipient of the prestigious Michael L. Printz Award 2024 for The Collectors. Trujillo has written several award-winning books for teens and children, most notably the Fat Angie series, an ALA Stonewall Award Winner, and Prizefighter en Mi Casa, a Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Winner. Their Lupe Lopez: Rock Star series, co-authored with NYT Bestseller Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by award-winning illustrator Joe Cepeda, has received a number of accolades such as the International Latino Book Award, Junior Library Guild Gold and Bank Street Best Spanish Book. A Girl Can Build Anything also written with Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Keisha Morris was a National Science Teacher Association Winner. e.E. is the Executive Director of the youth literacy nonprofit Never Counted Out that supports access to books and creative mentorship. Trujillo is also a proud member of the Las Musas collective.

Speakers

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

e.E. Charlton-Trujillo

Author, Filmmaker

Mexican American author, filmmaker and youth literacy activist e.E. Charlton-Trujillo is the recipient of the prestigious Michael L. Printz Award 2024 for The Collectors. Trujillo has written several award-winning books for teens and children, most notably the Fat Angie series, an... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CST
Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

11:00am CST

Ethics in Science and Engineering

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

With new Science and Engineering TEKS being implemented this year, participants dive deep into three historic and local engineering scenarios and engage in discussions about the ethics behind each scenario. Teachers walk away with ideas that incorporate ethical issues of science and engineering that increase rigor for their gifted students.

Speakers

Polly Osei

SPIRAL Teacher, Spring Branch ISD

I am in my 27th year as an educator. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of South Dakota. Shortly after graduating, I moved to Texas where I taught for several years in middle school science. It is in teaching middle school and coaching Science Olympiad... Read More →

Annie Mitchell

Teacher, Spring Branch ISD

I earned a BA in Curriculum and Instruction from Houston Christian University, M.Ed in Educational Leadership from University of St. Thomas, and doctorate in Ethical Leadership at University of St. Thomas. My research focused on effective instructional practices for the continued... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

11:00am CST

NASA Opportunities for K-12 Students

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

NASA has myriad programs to engage K-12 students throughout the school year and into the summer. HAS, ADC, SPARX and many other amazing acronymic possibilities await to challenge and dive deeper into STEM with your G/T students. This session will not be just a random list of resources. The presenter will focus on those opportunities relevant to the participants who show up and make sure you leave with resources, and materials that you can plug directly into your curriculum.

Speakers

Steven Smith

Education Specialist II, NASA

Steven is an Education Specialist at Johnson Space Center in Houston. His work supports educators inspiring the next generation from historically disenfranchised groups, helping create culturally responsive lessons that engage students previously left out of the work NASA does. He... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

11:00am CST

Retiring "I Don’t Do Math": Leveraging Critical Thinking Math Mindsets to Sharpen Math Skillsets

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

If someone offers to pay you $10 to watch their dog and says they'll be gone an hour, should you get paid more if they come back after an hour and a half? Too often, students (and teachers) think of math as a rigid set of formulas and steps, and high achieving gifted learners obsess over getting the right answer, skipping over the power of asking the right questions. Instead, when we teach students to shift from asking "what" and "how" to "why" and "what if", we unlock a set of tools for solving real-world problems of fairness and justice. In this session, learn powerful, practical steps for teaching math mindsets, including checking gut reactions, analyzing from multiple perspectives, and asking "what would the world look like if __?".

Speakers

Tabitha Ejinkonye

Partner Success Manager, thinkLaw

Before serving as thinkLaw's Partner Success Manager, Tabitha taught elementary math, science, and gifted and talented students in Dallas and Houston, TX and served as Special Education Department Chair. She has a M.Ed. in Special Education from the University of Houston-Victoria... Read More →

Gaby Romero

Curriculum and Systems Specialist, thinkLaw

Gaby, a dedicated educator with a passion for serving her community in Dallas, Texas, brings over 14 years of experience teaching elementary bilingual and gifted and talented students. Her journey began with a belief in the transformative power of education, leading her to create... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

11:00am CST

Student Centered for Student Success

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Behind the bells and whistles, most "gamified" classroom solutions are little more than low level guessing games. Students deserve better! Let's blow way past Jeopardy and learn how to start using gamified instructional techniques to challenge students to fuse content knowledge with creativity while unlocking their highest levels of learning.

Speakers

Michael Matera

Author, Co-Founder, EMC² Learning

Michael Matera (@MrMatera) is a Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based sixth grade teacher and founder of EMC2Learning.com as well as the author of Explore Like a Pirate: Gamification and Game-Inspired Course Design to Engage, Enrich and Elevate Your Learners (2016), and Fully Engaged: Playful... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

11:00am CST

The Magic of AR and VR in Action! [Secondary Focus]

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Immerse yourself into the magic of AR and VR in the classroom on a limited budget. We will explore how you can take your lessons to the next level with easy to use tools. This session will include hands on learning that will open a learning portal within the classroom.

Speakers

Heather Brantley

CEER - CTE Digital Communications, Pine Tree ISD

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Secondary

11:00am CST

Discovering Depth & Complexity to Differentiate and Empower Critical Thinking

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Are you new to the Depth and Complexity Framework? Join our hands-on workshop and unlock exciting tools to boost student thinking and make your lessons pop! Discover how to transform scripted curricula into dynamic, open-ended adventures. Walk away with fun, proven strategies, and activities to instantly supercharge your teaching!

Speakers

Kim Tredick

Lead Consultant, J Taylor Education

Kim Tredick is a former Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. She has served as lead curriculum writer for J Taylor Education since 2006 and has been using Depth and Complexity for three decades as a teacher, principal, and district administrator. In 2006, she was awarded... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Depth & Complexity

11:00am CST

Harnessing the Power of AI: Transforming Secondary ELA Lesson Planning and Instruction to Engage All Learners, Including Advanced Students [Secondary Focus]

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Explore AI's potential to revolutionize Secondary ELA lesson planning through the workshop model. Learn to leverage AI tools for student-centered, differentiated lessons tailored to diverse abilities, including advanced learners. Develop AI-enhanced lesson plans to create engaging learning experiences for your students.

Speakers

Halo Rogers

MS ELA Curriculum & Instruction Academic Technology IST, NISD

Halo Rogers is an accomplished educator with a master's degree in curriculum & instruction, extensive experience as a middle school ELA teacher and Gifted and Talented Specialist, and a proven track record of leading curriculum development and facilitating professional development... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword AI, Secondary

11:00am CST

Achieving Equity in Gifted Education: Using the Naglieri General Ability Tests

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Increasing diversity and achieving equity has long been a goal of gifted education. Even so, Brown and Black students and those living in poverty remain glaringly missing. Language demands of verbal and quantitative ability tests are barriers for many students. Learn methods for equitable identification and building inclusive gifted programming.

Speakers

Kim Lansdowne

Executive Director, Herberger Young Scholars Academy

Kimberly is the founding Executive Director of the Herberger Young Scholars Academy, a distinguished secondary school catering to highly gifted students at Arizona State University.In 2023, Kimberly was honored with the Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented Lifetime Achievement... Read More →

Dr. Dina Brulles

Academic Associate, MLF Teacher's College, Arizona State University

Dina Brulles, Ph.D., is the Gifted Masters Program Coordinator at Arizona State University and the former Director of Gifted Education at Paradise Valley USD in Arizona. Dina has served as NAGC’s Governance Secretary and the board’s School District Representative. She received... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

11:00am CST

The Digital Leap: Modernizing Gifted Education Identification Processes

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Join Goose Creek ISD and Project Education for an innovative session on advancing gifted and talented education, led by Dr. Shannon Ramirez, GT Coordinator of Advanced Academics and Special Projects at Goose Creek ISD and Alicia Bergeron Director of Implementation for Project Education. Dive into The Digital Leap: Modernizing Gifted Education Processes, where you'll explore how to transition from traditional methods to dynamic digital solutions to manage GT programs.

Discover actionable strategies, gain valuable insights, and access best practices that make digital transformation seamless and effective. Whether you're at the beginning of your digital journey or looking to enhance existing efforts, this session will empower you to embrace the future of education with confidence and creativity. Don't miss this chance to elevate your GT program and lead the way in modern education!

Speakers

Alicia Bergeron

Director of Implementation Services, Project Education

Shannon Ramirez

Advanced Academics Coordinator, Goose Creek CISD

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

11:00am CST

Changing the Perception: Rethinking Your G/T Curriculum and Service Model

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Take a look at how our district restructured the G/T service model and curriculum to align with academic standards. Also, explore how the G/T Expo can demonstrate creativity and the application of learning. Participants will learn why we made the change, what we changed, and the implementation process.

Speakers

Judi Elliott

Identification & Differentiation Specialist, Humble ISD

Judi Elliott’s pursuit of lifelong learning includes Master’s of Information Technology and over 27 years of education. During that time, she served as a middle school math teacher, Instructional Technologist, Lead Science Teacher, and Gifted and Talented Facilitator. Judi currently... Read More →

Jennifer Williams

Advanced Learning Coordinator, Humble ISD

Jennifer Williams is the Advanced Learning Coordinator for Elementary Schools in Humble ISD. This is her 24th year in education, and she has a diverse background throughout her career. Jennifer has worked with PK-12 grade students as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Program Options and Design

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

11:00am CST

Gifted Onboarding: An Intentional Approach to Helping Gifted Learners and Their Families Understand the Gifted Journey

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Imagine starting a new job and feeling a bit lost in the shuffle. What if you didn’t even know why you were there? In this session, learn how Gifted Onboarding can help gifted learners and their families understand what giftedness is, what it isn’t, and what they can expect from gifted services.

Speakers

Andi McNair

GT Specialists, ESC Region 12

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

11:45am CST

🍴 Lunch on Your Own

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:45am - 1:30pm CST

Visit the Riverwalk or a local restaurant or use a food delivery service, the choice is yours!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 11:45am - 1:30pm CST
Visit the Riverwalk or a local restaurant or use a food delivery service, the choice is yours!

12:00pm CST

Lunch Buddies

Wednesday December 4, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm CST

TAGT Registration Desk (3rd Floor)

Would you like to make new friends over lunch? Meet up at the TAGT registration desk and join up with a group for lunch!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm CST
TAGT Registration Desk (3rd Floor)

1:30pm CST

MasterMind Session: When An At-Risk Summer Becomes A Worthwhile Life

Wednesday December 4, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Join e.E. Charlton-Trujillo, an award-winning young adult author, as they share their experience of trekking across America to mentor at-promise youth, and came back with a testament to the power of showing up, standing up, and being heard. Be inspired and stand in solidarity to continue your impactful work with students after hearing e.E. Charlton-Trujillo’s stories of the challenges, hopes, and new beginnings found in the most unlikely places.

Speakers

e.E. Charlton-Trujillo

Author, Filmmaker

Wednesday December 4, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

2:45pm CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Visit with exhibitors, take a break, fill your water, jot down some notes on your learning so far, or make your dinner plans with new or old friends!

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

2:45pm CST

Meet-up: Elementary Teachers

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Elementary Teachers! Gather together for a time to make a new friend, share an experience or resource, and build your network of connections.

Speakers

Heather Gunn

Frisco ISD

Katie Hitchman

GT Instructional Support Specialist, Northside ISD

Katie Hitchman has a passion for gifted education that has been developed and deepened over her 18 years in education. She now coordinates a total school clustering program for elementary schools as a district Instructional Support Teacher for the Advanced Academics Department in... Read More →

Rebecca Jasinski

Advanced Academic Specialist, Alvin ISD

Bonnie Murray

Advanced Academics Specialist, Alvin ISD

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

2:45pm CST

Meet-up: Secondary Teachers

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Secondary Teachers! Gather together for a time to make a new friend, share an experience or resource, and build your network of connections.

Speakers

Leny Philipose

GT Campus Coordinator & Teacher, Wylie High School

Leny Philipose is a high school GT/Humanities teacher in North Texas with 20 years of classroom experience. She is pursuing a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Gifted and Talented Education. Leny's research interests include... Read More →

Javetta Jones Roberson

District Coordinator, Advanced Academics & Gifted, McKinney ISD

Dr. Javetta Jones Roberson serves as the District Coordinator of Secondary Advanced Academics & Gifted and Talented in McKinney ISD. Javetta received her doctorate of education in the Educational Leadership program at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Her research interests include diverse... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

3:15pm CST

A Conversation with Ilana Walder-Biesanz (Live Podcast Recording)

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:00pm CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Learn more about Ilana Walder-Biesanz and the compelling story behind National Math Stars.

Ilana founded National Math Stars in 2023. Prior to that she worked as a management consultant for Bain & Company, advising for- and non-profits in education, climate, and manufacturing. She started her career as a product manager at Yahoo! She holds a B.S. in Engineering from Olin, an M.Phil. in European Literature from Cambridge, and an MBA from Stanford. In her spare time you'll find Ilana attending the theater, reading novels, petting her two cats, and solving all sorts of puzzles.

Speakers

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

Ilana Walder-Biesanz

CEO, National Math Stars

Ilana founded National Math Stars in 2023. Prior to that she worked as a management consultant for Bain & Company, advising for- and non-profits in education, climate, and manufacturing. She started her career as a product manager at Yahoo! She holds a B.S. in Engineering from Olin... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:00pm CST
Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

about Ilana founded National Math Stars in 2023. Prior to that she worked as a management consultant for Bain & Company, advising for- and non-profits in education, climate, and manufacturing. She started her career as a product manager at Yahoo!  She holds a B.S. in Engineering from Olin, an M.Phil. in European Literature from Cambridge, and an MBA from Stanford.  In her spare time you'll find Ilana attending the theater, reading novels, petting her two cats, and solving all sorts of puzzles.

3:15pm CST

AI Brilliance Unleashed: Nurturing Scholar Identities in the AI Era

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is impacting our education system. We must develop students’ scholar identities alongside their artificial intelligence literacy. This session will introduce the Artificial Intelligence Classroom Competencies in conjunction with the Scholar Identity Model™ as a means to prepare gifted and advanced learners in the age of machine learning.

Speakers

Dr. Julia Nyberg

Professor and Executive Director, Purdue University Global and California Association for the Gifted

Dr. Julia Nyberg is a Professor at Purdue University Global in Graduate Education. Dr. Nyberg was a K-6 classroom teacher and professional development expert before entering higher education. Dr. Nyberg’s research focuses on curriculum design that is culturally sustainable for diverse... Read More →

Gilman Whiting

Professor, Vanderbilt University

Dr. Whiting is a Professor at Vanderbilt University in African American and Diaspora Studies. Dr. Whiting's areas of research include educational disparity; special and gifted education; sociology of race, sports, and American culture; research methods, and fatherhood initiatives... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword AI

3:15pm CST

Bejeweled: Curriculum Gems for Doing More, with Less

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

You can make your curriculum shimmer, even with limited time, tools or space. This session offers fun, time-efficient learning opportunities that can be tailored to the interests of your students. We promise you’ll leave with ready-to-implement curriculum ideas that promise practical, impactful solutions to build engagement in the gifted classroom. This session is geared toward upper elementary but can be adjusted to fit the needs 3-8.

Speakers

Kelli Mitchell

GT Specialist, Northwest ISD

Lindsey Hart

G/T Specialist, Northwest ISD

Lindsey Hart is a GT Specialist in Northwest ISD with over 16 years of experience in providing gifted services in both classroom and pull-out settings. She advocates tirelessly for twice-exceptional students, and works closely with teachers and other specialists to develop curriculum... Read More →

Caitlin Andrews

GT Specialist, Northwest ISD

Caitlin Andrews is a GT Specialist in Northwest ISD with over 14 years of experience in providing gifted services in both self-contained and pull-out classrooms. She is advocate for twice-exceptional students, a passion that has only grown since her own son was identified as dyslexic... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

3:15pm CST

Consciously Connecting to the Quantitative Strengths of G/T Readers

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Developing quantitative reasoning in all content areas leads GT readers to deeper, richer thinking. A fast-paced session that defines and has educators practice quantitative strategies. Educators can quickly implement these unique strategies that will inspire GT readers to engage in very different critical thinking while interacting with text.

Speakers

Marla Caviness-French

Gifted and Talented Resource Teacher, Jeffco Public Schools

Marla Caviness-French has been a public education teacher for 34 years - 14 as a secondary social studies and language arts teacher, 9 as a teacher librarian, and 11 as a Gifted and Talented Resource teacher. Marla is the CogAT Coordinator for the Jeffco Public Schools (96 schools... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

3:15pm CST

Problem-Based Learning 101: Adapting PBL to Engage and Challenge Gifted Learners

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

In Problem-Based Learning students are transported into a real world story. PBL this catalyst as platform for students to become knowledgeable, independent thinkers, and self-directed collaborators. Through demonstration, discussion, and classroom stories you will see how PBL uses the allure of a story to immerse students in advanced learning.

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

3:15pm CST

Enhancing Differentiation with Technology for Gifted Students

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Explore how technology can be used to differentiate content for gifted students. This session provides educators with practical tech tools and strategies to create personalized and challenging learning experiences.

Speakers

Bruce Ellis

Director of Professional Development, TCEA

Bruce’s versatile classroom teaching experiences lend authenticity to his workshops. His 20+ years of experience, enthusiasm for educational technology, and his hands-on approach to training have helped educators effectively utilize educational technology and improve student success... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword STEM

3:15pm CST

S.B. 2124: Expanding Access to Advanced Math through Universal Screening and Auto-Enrollment

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

In Texas, S.B. 2124 uses universal screening in fifth grade to identify math potential and expand access to advanced middle school math classes. In this campfire conversation, participants will share (a) how middle school math auto-enrollment is going, (b) successful instructional strategies, and (c) resources teachers and leaders need.

Speakers

Travis Hill

PhD Student, University of North Texas

Travis D. Hill (he/him) is pursuing his Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a concentration in gifted education. His research interests are in the student experience, creativity, and how secondary preparedness impacts gifted students’ post-secondary decisions. He is the Director... Read More →

Melanie S. Meyer

Lecturer, Baylor University

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Law and Policy

Keyword Secondary

3:15pm CST

PLCs for Campus G/T Specialists

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Professional Learning Communities allow educators to share best practices, brainstorm innovative ideas, and collaborate on ways to improve/drive student achievement. Together we will explore key components to a successful, motivating, and informative PLC among Gifted and Talented specialists.

Speakers

Melissa Vasquez

Gifted and Advanced Academic Services Coordinator, Round Rock ISD

Melissa Vasquez is one of the Gifted and Advanced Academic Services Coordinator with Round Rock ISD, focusing on elementary programming. She has been a member of the Round Rock ISD family for 12 years. Her career in education started with substitute teaching, after which she became... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

3:15pm CST

The Struggle Is Real: Valuing Productive Struggle

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Ditch the myth of “math people” by emphasizing the value of productive struggle in learning. Learn how to foster a positive math identity in students as they grapple with challenging problems, ultimately leading to deeper mathematical understanding. Explore strategies to build supportive communities, plan effective lessons, and reflect on teaching practices.

Speakers

Alyssa Hanna

Sales Executive-Central South, Art of Problem Solving

With 11 years of experience and a Masters in Teacher Leadership, my enthusiasm for education is evident. I have partnered with educators to strategically design and execute cross-curricular lesson plans aligned with state standards. My passion lies in leveraging critical thinking... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Social and Emotional Needs of the Gifted

Keyword Social Emotional Needs, STEM

3:15pm CST

Teaching Strategies for Enhancing Thinking and Feeling: A Curricular Model of Confluence [Secondary Focus]

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Strategies for helping gifted students integrate cognitive and affective processes while learning academic content will be the focus of this session. Participants will evaluate and improve a set of strategies designed to stimulate confluent thinking and leave the session armed with concrete strategies for differentiating thinking processes for diverse learners.

Speakers

Joyce Miller, Ph.D.

Professor Curriculum and Instruction, Texas A&M University Commerce

Joyce E. Kyle Miller, holds the doctorate in Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction and has completed post-doctoral education in Gifted Education at the University of North Texas and the University of Connecticut-Storrs. Dr. Miller developed the gifted and talented graduate program... Read More →

Connie Phelps

Gifted Program Director & Professor, Emporia State University

Shaunise Robinson, Ed.D.

Owner, Poised for Success

Shaunise Pelts Robinson earned her Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration. She holds the doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction department at Texas A&M University-Commerce. She has experience as an elementary special... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Secondary, Social Emotional Needs

3:15pm CST

Acceleration: Who, What, When, Where and How?

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Acceleration is an intervention moves students through the curriculum at a faster rate than their age-mates. Though supported by research, many myths about acceleration exist and it remains under-utilized. For students with exceptional cognitive ability, high performance, and motivation acceleration can ensure access to rigorous curriculum and appropriate challenge.

Speakers

Wendy Behrens

State Director of Gifted Education, Minnesota Department of Education

Wednesday December 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Program Options and Design

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

4:15pm CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:15pm - 4:30pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Connect with exhibitors and with other attendees, fill up your water, and get ready for the next session.

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:15pm - 4:30pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

4:30pm CST

Tech Tools for the G/T Classroom

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Robotics and technology are amazing and engaging tools for students, but what exactly can we do with them within the time we have our gifted students? This session gives its attendees resources and ideas on how to utilize various robotics and technology while integrating core subjects.

Speakers

Kathryn Gardiol

Coordinator of Advanced Programs, Leander ISD

Kathryn Gardiol is the current Coordinator of Advanced Programs in Leander ISD, bringing nearly two decades of experience in education to her role. She began her career as a third-grade classroom teacher and has dedicated the past 12 years to serving as a Gifted and Talented (GT... Read More →

Jessica Weiss

G/T Specialist, Leander iSD

Jessica received her degree in Early Childhood Development from The University of Texas at Austin and immediately began her career in education teaching in Leander ISD. Jessica is currently in her 15th year of teaching and has taught multiple grade levels.This is Jessica’s third... Read More →

Jennifer Cooper

G/T Specialist, Leander ISD

I have been in gifted education for 12 years. I co created the AIM gifted program in Manor ISD and was the lead gifted elementary coordinator while there. I have since moved to Leander ISD where I teach their gifted program known as QUEST. I have been a member of TAGT's Advocacy and... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

4:30pm CST

“There is No Right Answer” – Quick Ways to Challenge and Empower Your Middle School Gifted Students to Think Creatively and Critically

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Are you frustrated and overwhelmed with your gifted math students solely focusing on quickly spitting out “the right answer”? Come learn strategies that can be easily implemented to challenge and support your gifted students to focus on learning rather than giving answers.

Speakers

Charm Mapp

Gifted Lead Teacher, Clifton Ridge Middle School

Charm Mapp, a 21-year veteran middle school math teacher in Jones County, Georgia, is passionately dedicated to the growth of the gifted program in her school and county. She is currently enrolled in the Curriculum and Instruction doctoral program at Georgia College & State University... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

4:30pm CST

G/Ting my AP [Secondary Focus]

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Many districts suggest Advanced Placement classes meet the needs of secondary G/T students - however true G/T support requires differentiation even within the AP Class. Come explore ways to adapt the AP classroom to the needs of the G/T learner while still meeting College Board AP Test expectations.

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Secondary

4:30pm CST

Bringing G/T to the Community

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

This session focuses on bringing G/T to the community. Participants will learn how Central Heights ISD has incorporated their G/T showcase with the community health fair. Attendees will be able to ask questions and share ideas with peers on the best methods of bringing their G/T projects to the community.

Speakers

Michaelle Coker

Teacher, Central Heights ISD

Dr. Michaelle Coker has taught in the secondary setting for the past 14 years including both science and GT research. She has her doctorate in agriculture education with an emphasis on extension and youth development. Her classroom environment is learner-centered, which is accomplished... Read More →

Donna Johnson

Curriculum/GT Coordinator, Central Heights ISD

Donna Johnson a 24 year veteran educator has served students from Kindergarten through twelfth grades. During her teaching career, Mrs. Johnson focused on the English Language Arts classroom and prodded herself on her interdisciplinary studies and collaboration with all subjects... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

4:30pm CST

Genius Hour Meetup

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Join us for a casual conversation about Genius Hour. Those that attend will be given the opportunity to ask questions, learn from others and gain new ideas for utilizing passion projects and family passion projects to serve gifted learners and support gifted families in a meaningful way.

Speakers

Andi McNair

GT Specialists, ESC Region 12

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

4:30pm CST

TEA and CAC Update

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:30pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

The Texas Education Agency and Commissioner's Advisory Council on G/T Education (CAC) will provide program updates. Topics included legislative updates, equity in identification, program options, student growth, and parental involvement.

Speakers

Meredith Austin

Associate Director & Faculty, Rice University

Dr. Meredith Austin is the Associate Director of the Master of Arts in Teaching program and a faculty member at Rice University. She is an experienced educator and district administrator with a vibrant passion and deep commitment to developing educators. As a teacher and administrator... Read More →

Monica Brewer

Gifted/Talented Education Statewide Coordinator, Texas Education Agency

Monica Brewer is a Statewide Coordinator, Gifted/Talented (G/T) Education with the Texas Education Agency. In this role, Monica coordinates all aspects of G/T education and the Commissioner’s Advisory Council for Gifted/Talented Education. Monica is a qualified leader and holds... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2024 4:30pm - 5:30pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Law and Policy

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists