giftED24: Full Schedule

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7:30am CST

Marketplace Open

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

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Connect with exhibitors to find the next right product or service to take your program to the next level.

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

7:30am CST

Registration Open

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

TAGT Registration Desk (3rd Floor)

We're here for you! Come pick up your badge, ask a question, or just say hi.

Thursday December 5, 2024 7:30am - 5:00pm CST
TAGT Registration Desk (3rd Floor)

8:00am CST

Coordinator Coffee Sponsored by Knowsys

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Take a moment to catch up with your fellow G/T leaders and share your challenges and solutions with your favorite morning brew in this casual coffee and chat session, sponsored by Knowsys Educational Services LLC.

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

8:00am CST

Canva + AI and the G/T Learner

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Do your students have access to Canva? Join us to learn how to use Canva to create voice and choice opportunities for our G/T students. Canva is a graphic design platform that empowers students to craft engaging professional materials for learning and communication purposes effortlessly.

Speakers

Susan Alcala

Secondary Advanced Academics Facilitator, HEB ISD

Susan Alcala is an educator with over two decades of teaching experience in English and Social Studies classrooms. Currently serving as the Secondary Advanced Academics Facilitator for HEB ISD, Susan brings a wealth of expertise in fostering academic excellence across diverse student... Read More →

Donna Hodge

Advanced Academics/GT Coordinator, Keller ISD

Donna Hodge serves as the Advanced Academics/GT Coordinator for Keller I.S.D. Her passion lies in advocating for gifted learners, as well as the parents and teachers who support them, in our ever-evolving world. This passion fuels her pursuit of even better solutions that create new... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword AI

8:00am CST

E-Portfolios: A Resume for the Next Generation

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Many adults struggle with building a resume, what if we taught the next generation how to build a digital resume in elementary? E-Portfolios become digital transcripts showcasing their presentations, artifacts, any reflections/blogs, or have a place for discussions. E-Portfolios share their learning with teachers, their peers, and the world.

Speakers

Chastity Crissman

Teacher, Pasadena ISD

I am a fourth-grade teacher in my district. I have taught for 10 years and have a master’s degree in Applied Digital Learning and another in Teacher Leadership with a focus in Gifted and Talented. I have always taught a wide-range of students from SPED to the gifted and have a passion... Read More →

Lauren Davis

Literacy Instructional Coach, Pasadena ISD

I have fifteen years of educational experience and a master’s degree in educational administration. I am a literacy instructional coach on my campus and have done that for eight years. I was a first, second, and third grade teacher and taught SPED students as well as gifted students... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

8:00am CST

Empowering Writing Skills to Impact Research [Secondary Focus]

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Before young researchers can complete an organized presentation showing depth of understanding, they must ask/refine open-ended questions, glean the most relevant information, and be able to present their findings in a coherent way. Let's dive into strategic writing skills and techniques that will make a noticeable impact on their product!

Speakers

Jennifer Seaton

Director Of Learning & Development, Empowering Writers

After 17 years in public education, Jennifer made the decision to join the Empowering Writers team as a trainer so she could passionately share impactful skills that transformed her own instruction and help create effective writers with others. After 8 years with the company, she... Read More →

EmpoweringWritersHandout giftEd24 pdf

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Secondary

8:00am CST

Gifted Tricks, Classroom Escape Rooms & Forensic Scenes!

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

This session will explore the related strategies of Classroom Escape Rooms and Classroom Forensic Scenes. These fun and engaging exercises also develop important critical and creative thinking skills, and can be used to reinforce standard-based content. Also, (FREE!) books will be provided with ready-to-use exercises for the classroom.

Speakers

PBL Project

The PBL Project provides teachers with a variety of DOK 3-4 strateges (PBL scenarios, Critical/Creative Thinking exercises, Escape Rooms/Forensic Scenes, STEM Challenges, Analogies, and more).Contact: Ben BacheWebsite: https://www.pblproject.comEmail: ben@pblproject.com

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

8:00am CST

Growing Beyond the "Yet" of Motivation Science and Mindset: Practical Techniques

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Many of us adopted “growth mindset” (Dweck, 2006); but motivation science has grown significantly over recent decades! Combining lessons from peer-reviewed texts (Dweck, Dixon, & Gross, 2023; Bong, Reeve, & Kim, 2023) with practical techniques, this session will bottom-line the what, why, and how behind building resilience and self-efficacy.

Speakers

Nicole Mattingly

Doctoral Candidate (ABD), University of North Texas

Nicole Mattingly, M.A., is a Doctoral Candidate (ABD) in Educational Psychology at the University of North Texas, and a certified SENG Community Group Facilitator. A former Instructor and biochemical researcher at University of Colorado and a parent to two 2e/PG children, Nicole’s... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

8:00am CST

Using Children's Literature to Promote Ponderings

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

In this session, participants will understand the importance of promoting critical thinking activities in their classrooms. They will be exposed to interesting children's books and activities which promote deep thinking & will be able to ponder how they could incorporate the ideas learned to enhance critical thinking in their classrooms.

Speakers

Johnna Rosson

GT Program Teacher, Ector County ISD

Johnna Rosson-M.A. This is her 40th year in education. She will be installed as the K-12 representative for the TAGT Board of Directors at this giftED conference. Ms. Rosson has taught at the elementary and secondary levels and has administrative experience as a Curriculum Enrichment... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

8:00am CST

Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Paralysis

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Gifted, advanced, and twice-exceptional students present great challenges. Perfectionist or procrastinator? Lack of skill or lack of motivation? Underachiever or non-producer? This engaging session will explore some of the factors that inhibit student performance in the classroom and look at some solutions to help students reach their potential.

Speakers

Greg Reeves

Gifted Specialist, Think Big Learning

Gregory Reeves is a gifted education specialist for Think Big Learning. He has spent 33 years in education as a Latin and English teacher, G/T coordinator, and department chairman. Greg recently retired as the English Language Arts and G/T education specialist at the Region 17 Education... Read More →

Tobi McMillan

Co-owner, Think Big Learning

www.thinkbiglearning.net

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

8:00am CST

Cognitive Strategies for Building Success for ALL Students with CogAT

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Do you know what a CogAT profile tells you about a student? Join us to decode the CogAT profile and apply this information to instructional opportunities for students. When instruction matches the way a student learns best, learning is maximized.

Speakers

Amy Chandler

Assistant Director - Gifted & Talented, North East ISD

Jennifer Ruth

Student Achievement Specialist, Plano ISD

Jennifer Ruth began her career in Plano ISD at Christie Elementary as a teacher and instructional specialist. From this experience she learned that she loved tote trays but hated textbook counts. She now works as an Assessment Specialist supporting teachers in how to use the data... Read More →

Monica Simonds

Product Strategist, Riverside Insights

MONICA SIMONDS, M.Ed., was the Director of Advanced Learning Programs and Services in Richardson ISD. After receiving her Master’s in Gifted Education, Monica taught gifted children in all grades and provided professional learning opportunities for the districts. She is a member... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

8:00am CST

Research in Practice: How Educators are Doing More with Less Using the Total School Cluster Grouping Model

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Each year, educators are asked to do more with less and schools across the state are making it work. In this panel, we discuss how educators in Northside ISD use the Total School Cluster Grouping Model to put research into practice for students with advanced learning needs.

Speakers

Kelly Cross

Elementary Math Instructional Support Specialist, Northside ISD

In her 18 years as an educator, Kelly Cross has been privileged to work with students and teachers in a variety of K-5 settings. She has worked as a classroom teacher, gifted and talented teacher, and now Instructional Support Teacher for Northside ISD. Her passion is in creating... Read More →

Katherine Pentz

Gifted and Talented Specialist, Northside ISD

Laura Benavidez

Northside ISD

Rachel Friedrich

Northside 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 →

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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

9:00am CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 9:15am CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Visit with Exhibitors and get ready for our MasterMind speaker up next!

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 9:15am CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

9:15am CST

MasterMind Session: How an Adventurous Spirit Can Unlock Greatness

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:15am - 10:30am CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

People can set their minds to magical and seemingly impossible ideas and through exploration.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we are called to step up to the proverbial line and venture into the
unknown. It's our time as educational explorers. Time for us to take chances, time for us to embrace the
challenges that come with exploration, time for us to move beyond the known and shape this new world
of education. Together, let us set our course for greatness.

Sponsored by Samegoal

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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 9:15am - 10:30am CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

10:30am CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Visit with Exhibitors and start making your lunch plans!

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

10:30am CST

Meet-up: Small & Rural Districts

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Are you attending from a small and/or rural district? There are unique needs you face that can be helped by having a network of others from similar districts. Join this meet-up to make new connections to help you after you get back home.

Speakers

Cecelia Boswell

Educational Consultant, Austin Creek Education Systems

Cecelia Boswell is an educator, consultant, and author. She taught migrant and giftedstudents, was Advanced Academics Consultant and Executive Director of AdvancedAcademics in an urban school where she created a middle school gifted academy. Sheled research projects, professional... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

10:30am CST

giftED Meet-up: TPSP Implementation & Updates

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

This meet-up is for anyone wanting to learn more about the Texas Performance Standards Project (https://www.texaspsp.org) and how to implement in your classrooms. The Texas Performance Standards Project (TPSP) comprises a set of performance standards, curricula, and assessments for differentiating instruction and deepening academic learning. TPSP enhances gifted/talented (G/T) programs from kindergarten through high school.

Speakers

Rubi Contreras

Learning Resource Specialist, Pasadena ISD

I love matching students with the perfect book and sharing ideas to promote reading! I have been in Education for 18 years and have been in the library for 8 years. I live in Pasadena TX with my husband Rocky and my four children. I have been at Laura W. Bush Elementary my whole education... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

11:00am CST

A Conversation with Dina Brulles (Live Podcast Recording)

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Hear more about what drives Dina and her work in the field of gifted education in this conversation with Michael Flushe.

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 the 2022 NAGC Anne Isaacs Award for Distinguished Service and NAGC’s inaugural Gifted Coordinator Award in 2014. Dina’s work emphasizes equitable and inclusive identification practices and programming in gifted education.

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 →

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 →

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

about 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 the 2022 NAGC Anne Isaacs Award for Distinguished Service and NAGC’s inaugural Gifted Coordinator Award in 2014. Dina’s work emphasizes equitable and inclusive identification practices and programming in gifted education.

11:00am CST

Innovation Knows No Language Barrier Through Gifted/Talented Dual Language STEAM

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Gifted/Talented Dual Language STEAM empowers students to thrive in a world where innovation knows no language barrier and where teachers can cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and cultural competency while preparing them for success in their global society. These strategies and activities will build for everything STEAM.

Speakers

Estephanie Ronquillo

Teacher, El Paso ISD

Estephanie Ronquillo has served as a G/T Dual Language Teacher at Mesita Elementary School for seven years. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Texas at El Paso. Ms. Ronquillo has presented at TAGT conferences, as well as Dual Language... Read More →

Patricia Castano

Teacher, Mesita ECDC/Elem School,ISD El Paso ISD

Patricia Castano has served as a G/T Dual Language Teacher at Mesita Elementary School for ten years. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Master's Degree in Education Leadership. Ms. Castano has presented at TAGT conferences, as well as Dual Language conferences... Read More →

Laila Ferris

Principal, Mesita ECDC/Elementary School, El Paso ISD

Laila Ferris has been the Principal of Mesita Early Childhood Development Center/Elementary School for 28 years, in the El Paso ISD. She has worked with the implementation of the Connecting Worlds/Mundos Unidos G/T Dual Language magnet program for 27 years. She received her Bachelors... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Multilingual, STEM

11:00am CST

Phenomenal Phenomena: Using Discrepant Events To Trigger Inquiry In Science

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Wait...WHAT?! Why did that happen? Gifted can students sometimes think they know everything, but what if if we could burst their bubble? Put on your student hat and join us for a fast-paced, full audience participation, classroom-ready smorgasbord of hands-on science demonstrations that will leave your gifted students wondering "Why?!".

Speakers

Matt Wells

Science Dept. Chair, Cypress Fairbanks ISD

Matt Wells is a multiple award-winning teacher, Science department chair, AP consultant and workshop presenter based in Houston, TX. A Past-President of both the Science Teacher’s Association of Texas and the Texas Association of Biology Teachers, and a regular presenter at giftED... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

11:00am CST

Ready to Use Vocabulary Activities [Secondary Focus]

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Targeted vocabulary study is essential, but how do you make it interesting and efficient? How do you integrate high-level vocabulary activities into a sustained vocabulary program without taking too much class time? Walk away with a menu of flexible activities you can use with a variety of vocabulary resources.

Speakers

Claire Skierski

English Department Chair, Grand Prairie ISD

Claire Skierski is an enthusiastic English teacher in her thirtieth year in education. Formerly a gifted specialist, she currently serves as the English department chair and teaches AP English Language and Composition, OnRamps Rhetoric (dual enrollment), and English III at Dubiski... Read More →

Sheila Griffith

President, Knowsys Educational Services, LLC

Dr. Sheila Griffith is the author of the Knowsys College Readiness Program and the Knowsys Vocabulary Builder Program and the co-author of the Knowsys That's Genius Math Program. Dr. Griffith is the co-owner and co-founder of Knowsys Educational Services and a recognized expert in... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Secondary

11:00am CST

Alternative Assessments That Rock and Roll

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Looking for ways to spice up your assessment? As a teacher myself, I know just how important our timeis both in professional development as well as in our classrooms. This session is packed full of practicaltips and ideas for you to spice up what assessing student learning looks like in your class! One thing forsure - you'll be leaving with a heap of good ideas. Ready to connect? Ready for your students to create,learn, and love your assessments? Let's go!

Speakers

Michael Matera

Author, Co-Founder, EMC² Learning

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

11:00am CST

From STEM to STEAM: Unleashing Creativity and the Arts into Your Gifted Education Lessons (Elementary)

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Let’s make learning more FUN! Join Little Miss Gifted, Stephanie Higgs, as she shares quick, easy, bite-sized tips to infuse elements of creativity, one of the most underutilized tools in education, into daily gifted lessons. Whether you use these as warm-ups, brain breaks, or as a way to level up gifted education instruction with arts integration, you are guaranteed to leave with strategies that you and your students will LOVE! Creativity sessions are always Little Miss Gifted’s most popular sessions, and this one is can’t-miss!

Speakers

Stephanie Higgs

Gifted Educator & Differentiation Coach, Little Miss Gifted

Stephanie Higgs, best known as @littlemissgifted on Instagram, is an award-winning, Nashville-living gifted educator and differentiation coach. Stephanie is a quick thinking, fast talking, and passionate international professional development presenter who infuses a little sparkle... Read More →

FromSTEMtoSTEAMStephanieHiggsHandout (4) pdf

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword STEM

11:00am CST

Supercharged Science: Integrating Depth and Complexity with the New TEKS

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Discover innovative strategies to merge the powerful tools of the Depth and Complexity Framework and the new Science TEKS to elevate your instruction to new heights. Uncover fresh teaching practices, dynamic resources, and hands-on activities that will captivate and engage your students like never before. Join us to revolutionize your approach and ignite a passion for science in your classroom!

Speakers

Katelyn Barnhart

J Taylor Education

Katelyn Barnhart has over 15 years of experience teaching middle school science and has worked with students from all backgrounds and learning styles. She has worked to create a campus literacy initiative on her campus that promotes literacy in all subjects and grade levels. She has... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword STEM, Depth & Complexity

11:00am CST

I'm Just G/T: The Many Faces of Gifted and Talented Students

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

The goal is to examine the domains and characteristics of G/T students in discovering that there is no one "cookie-cutter" G/T student and that each student is unique. Participants will leave the session with urgency to leave behind stereotypes and to better identify the many faces of G/T students.

Speakers

Ginger Canaan

GT Consultant K-12, ESC Region 7

With over 20 years of classroom experience and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, Ginger has dedicated her career to education. As a Region 7 G/T Specialist, she has a deep passion for supporting 2E and EB gifted students. Ginger also works with instructional coaches to empower... Read More →

Steven Hammons

Social Studies and GT Consultant, Region 8 ESC

Steve has been in education for over 30 years and has served in several capacities in providing educational services to advanced learners as both a teacher and administrator. He presently serves as the K-12 GT consultant at Region 8 ESC in Mount Pleasant, Texas.

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

11:00am CST

Does Your Curriculum Support the Whole Gifted Child?

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Research indicates that schools can improve academic achievement when they support gifted learners’ cognitive and affective characteristics. This session will highlight the goals and components of an affective curriculum and provide examples to illustrate direct and indirect learning connections to support the whole gifted child in the classroom.

Speakers

Debi Torres

Doctoral Student, Baylor University

Debi K. Torres is a doctoral student in the Educational Psychology Gifted and Talented Program at Baylor University. Debi was as a former GT teacher and gifted education coordinator for the Austin ISD. She has presented at state and national gifted education and educational research... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Nature and Needs of the Gifted

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

11:00am CST

Empowered But Exasperated: Nurturing Executive Function and Mental Health in Gifted Kids

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

If you work in any capacity with gifted students and their families, you've heard the age-old gripe, "Are you sure they're gifted?" from teachers who cite executive function challenges as evidence for exiting gifted students. Here's the thing: Research supports the notion that gifted students are more likely to struggle with executive function due to the nature of their neurodiversity. Discover actionable insights in this essential conference session tailored for educators and administrators as we delve into the complexities of nurturing executive function and mental health in gifted children who often grapple with unique challenges despite their exceptional abilities. From identifying early signs of executive function struggles to implementing effective strategies for support, this session offers a comprehensive roadmap for fostering holistic well-being in gifted learners. Gain practical tools and techniques to empower and uplift gifted students, ensuring they thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Don't miss this opportunity to transform frustration into empowerment and cultivate a culture of resilience and understanding in your school communities.

Speakers

Erika Lucas

Teacher, Unlocking EF

Dr. Erika Lucas brings over a decade of teaching experience in Pennsylvania's public school system, with a significant portion of her career dedicated to nurturing the minds of gifted middle school students and collaborating closely with their families. Her recent doctoral journey... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Social and Emotional Needs of the Gifted

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

11:00am CST

Voices of LGBTQ and Gifted Students: What They Need from Teachers

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Stories from LGBTQ gifted students will be shared. High school graduates were interviewed to understand what unique challenges are facing our LGBTQ gifted students in public schools. Participants will also hear about strategies and approaches to implement to help these students.

Speakers

Amanda Rudolph

Professor, Stephen F. Austin State University

Amanda M. Rudolph is a profess at Stephen F. Austin State University. She works in the graduate and undergraduate programs and teaches the gifted education coursework. She has served TAGT on the TEMPO editorial board, the Advocacy committee, the Parent Resource committee and is currently... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Social and Emotional Needs of the Gifted

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

11:45am CST

🍴Lunch on Your Own

Thursday December 5, 2024 11:45am - 1:30pm CST

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

Thursday December 5, 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

Thursday December 5, 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!

Thursday December 5, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm CST
TAGT Registration Desk (3rd Floor)

1:15pm CST

A Conversation with Michael Matera (Live Podcast Recording)

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:15pm - 2:00pm CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Learn more about Michael Matera and his dedication to learning and play!

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 Pedagogy for Real Results (2021) – the latter of which he co authored with John Meehan.

Speakers

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

Michael Matera

Author, Co-Founder, EMC² Learning

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:15pm - 2:00pm CST
Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

about 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 Pedagogy for Real Results (2021) – the latter of which he co authored with John Meehan.

1:30pm CST

Garbage In / Garbage Out: The Art & Craft of Engineering Better Prompts and Questions

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Whether you’re utilizing ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or any AI tool, how you craft your prompt determines your results. The same is true with questions of Google, Alexa, Siri, and even humans! Through a series of ready-to-use thought experiments you’ll learn to think like a philosopher, question like a scientist, and create like an artist – all by wielding the power of the perfect prompt!

Speakers

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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword AI

1:30pm CST

How to Increase Engagement by Limiting Choices for the G/T Learner

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Feeling overwhelmed as you keep adding more to your load to differentiate for your special learners? What about limiting choices as a source of creativity within our current curriculum? This session will share lots of tried and tested ideas that will have your students 100% engaged!

Speakers

Kate Wells

Elementary Teacher, CFISD

Kate is an award-winning elementary teacher and educational consultant based in Houston, TX who is a regular presenter at giftED. Having raised a 2E child and taught gifted students in all 3rd-5th grade subjects, (in both clustered and self-contained settings), Kate is passionate... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

1:30pm CST

Inspiring Self-Determination Through Invention Education

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

As we continue to explore creative ways to engage students, educators look to Invention Education as effective teaching strategies empowering students with more relevant learning. Educators who create environments that are conducive to self-determination help students feel greater levels of satisfaction, more engaged and invested in what they’re learning.

Speakers

Jessica Fiew

Regional Program Manager, National Inventors Hall of Fame

Former educator with a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of education. I dedicated eight impactful years to White Settlement ISD, where I taught 3rd and 4th grade, as well as led the Gifted and Talented K-4 program and served as the STEM Coordinator. My passion for advancing... Read More →

2024 Tradeshow Session Presentation TAGT Compressed pptx

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

1:30pm CST

Climbing Bloom’s Taxonomy with Depth & Complexity

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

The tools of Depth & Complexity become even more powerful when combined with higher levels of thinking skills. In this session, we'll climb Bloom's taxonomy, showing how the Depth & Complexity framework can easily combine with each level to lead to rigorous, differentiated, and creative final products across all grade levels and subject areas.

Speakers

Parker Tredick

Lead Consultant, J Taylor Education

Parker Tredick is the lead Depth & Complexity consultant for J Taylor Education. His creative and energetic approach to differentiation creates a fun and engaging learning experience for educators. He began his teaching career at the Middle School level teaching science, social studies... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Depth & Complexity

1:30pm CST

Differentiation Made Easy: Any Grade Level, Any Subject!

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Differentiation is one of our favorite buzzwords in education, but where, when, why, and HOW?! Little Miss Gifted, Stephanie Higgs, makes differentiation a BREEZE in this action-packed session! She shares numerous engaging ideas that take little preparation on your part and pay off tenfold for your students. From stoplight questioning in whole group math or ELA lessons to a differentiated independent visual schedule that buys back time for our advanced learners, this session is can’t-miss!!

Handouts: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Yc0BcykdBcdSg6ca_P8pDu02Am862eM/view?usp=sharing

Speakers

Stephanie Higgs

Gifted Educator & Differentiation Coach, Little Miss Gifted

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

1:30pm CST

Identifying and Serving Gifted Dual Language Students: Best Practices to Empower our Learners into Developing their Full Potential

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Oftentimes, the particular characteristics of students who are gifted and in the process of becoming bilingual present challenges to educators. We will explore the interrelationship between giftedness and bilingualism, G/T identification and instructional best practices. We will also analyze real-life cases and outline holistic plans to meet your students' needs.

Speakers

Elsa Acosta

GT Campus Coordinator, Alief ISD

I am a passionate Bilingual Educator with 20 years of experience, always looking for ways to meet bilingual and gifted students' needs. I also serve as a Library Information Specialist and a Campus GT Coordinator, deeply committed to the process of identifying and serving gifted learners... Read More →

Yoliani Saud

Dual Language District Instructional Specialist, Alief ISD

I am a gifted adult who is profoundly committed to supporting gifted learners since early stages, as I understand from my own life experience how hard it can be to be an unsupported gifted child. I am a Doctor in Dentistry with a specialization in Hospital Management, a University... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Multilingual

1:30pm CST

It’s a Family Thing!

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Come join us as we share how to build partnerships and family engagement in your program. Learn about Family Passion Projects and how families can work together to explore their passions and ignite change. We will share ideas with each other so you leave with your ideas ready to implement.

Speakers

Deanna Lovesmith

Director of GT Services, Belton ISD

Deanna has over 30 years experience in public education and has found her passion working with GT students. She is a mom of a GT teenager.

GT It's a Family Thing pdf

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Nature and Needs of the Gifted

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

1:30pm CST

Prepping for Fallout: Building your Doomsday Bunker for a Post-Apocalyptic Gifted World

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 2:30pm CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

If gifted education wasn’t a priority to you, you wouldn’t be at this conference. But, in K-12 education, gifted education continues to be deprioritized, defunded, and in some cases, decimated entirely. This session explores practical, but powerful strategies that champions of gifted education can use to create sustainable programming to serve gifted students, even if the state and/or your district shuts down your gifted program entirely. And this isn’t just about preparing your doomsday bunker for a future fallout; it’s about envisioning a model for gifted services that creates equitable access and outcomes today.

Speakers

Colin Seale

CEO & Founder, ThinkLaw

Colin Seale was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where struggles in his upbringing gave birth to his passion for educational equity. Tracked early into gifted and talented programs, Colin was afforded opportunities his neighborhood peers were not. Using lessons from his experience... Read More →

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

Program Options and Design

1:30pm CST

Aligning the Secondary Service Model: Creating Collaboration between Advanced/Honors and AP Courses

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Many of our secondary G/T students are serviced by our Advanced/Honors and AP courses. In them, how do we differentiate for G/T students but also ensure that we are aligned with AP expectations? This session dives into how a large, surburban district is acreating alignment between Advanced/Honors and AP teachers.

Speakers

Theresa Pollok

Director of Advanced Academics, Mansfield ISD

Current K-12 Director of Advanced Academics for Mansfield ISD. Former ELAR/SS Instructional Coach. Former Secondary ELAR & Library Coordinator for MISD. Most recently was the Assistant Principal of Instruction for Red Oak Middle School (Grades 6-8; 1600+ students)

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

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Secondary, Coordinators/Specialists

1:30pm CST

Puzzlerama: The Joy of Rigorous Puzzles and Games

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Join us for a hands-on workshop with puzzles and games that bring “fun rigor” into the classroom. Intrinsic motivation from doing fun, mysterious activities (ciphers, logic puzzles, visual/spatial games, nonograms, and more!) draws students in to tackle difficult challenges. Harness the power of fun to enhance your classroom rigor!

Speakers

Sheila Mulbry

Gifted Specialist, Lockhart ISD

Sheila Mulbry currently serves as a Gifted Facilitator with Lockhart ISD. She is a constant advocate for gifted students and their special needs, and has presented staff development on gifted education for the past 20 years. She obtained BA degrees in Humanities (‘83) and Elementary... Read More →

Chris Ryan

Co-Founder CEO, Silverquicken Education

Teacher, author, and curriculum developer, Chris Ryan is CEO and co-founder of Silverquicken. He spent 15+ years growing an education startup to the world’s largest provider of GMAT test-preparation services, after close to a decade of consulting and teaching high school chemistry/physics... Read More →

Leslie Kerner

Co-Founder, COO, Silverquicken Education, Inc.

Educator, curriculum designer, parent, and community builder, Leslie Kerner is the COO and co-founder of Silverquicken. She’s spent 20 years developing K-12 education products and services. At Amplify, she worked closely with teachers and administrators around the country to bring... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

1:30pm CST

STEM Blitz: Rapid-Fire Elevation

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

In this session, you'll engage in a rapid exploration and discussion of STEM opportunities. We will emphasize the integration of new TEKS standards while addressing the metacognitive needs of gifted learners. Infused with the natural differentiator of depth & complexity with create learning worthy of the brightest.

Speakers

Hunter Miller

GT/STEM Teacher, Kerrville ISD

Hunter is the proud GT/STEM teacher at Tally Elementary in Kerrville ISD. My goal in the classroom is to inspire lifelong learners through hands-on and engaging experiences. I am known on my campus for my 75+ hats/dress up attire that helps show students that it’s okay to be themselves... Read More →

Blythe Brown

STEM Coordinator & Advanced Academics Specialist, JTaylor Education

Blythe Brown is currently an E-STEM Liaison and Advanced Academics Specialist in Clear Creek ISD who has spent over 20 years growing K-5 students and teachers. Prior to her current role, Blythe has taught upper elementary all contents and served as a math and science instructional... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword STEM

1:30pm CST

Unlocking Potential: Transforming Gifted Education with Independent Study Mentorship (ISM) [Secondary Focus]

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Does your campus or district struggle to meet the needs of your secondary gifted learners in a meaningful way? Come explore the transformative impact of Independent Study Mentorship (ISM), an innovative course offered by TEA, that empowers gifted juniors and seniors to pursue personalized learning experiences with community mentors. The second half of this session will include a student panel so you can hear directly from them about their experience and impact of their learning.

Speakers

Tiffany Sweitzer-Guzman

G/T Specialist, Northside iSD

Tiffany Sweitzer-Guzman has been part of the Northside Independent School District for the last 16 years and currently serves as the Gifted and Talented Program Specialist at O’Connor High School. She dedicates her expertise to challenging and inspiring gifted students. Her passion... Read More →

Maria Cisneros

GT Specialist, Northside ISD

Maria Cisneros holds a Master's degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis on special populations and has dedicated 15 years to teaching at Northside Independent School District. With a decade of experience in the Gifted and Talented program, she is committed to fostering the... Read More →

Roxanne Brown

District GT Program Coordinator, Northside ISD

Roxanne Brown has been an educator for 33 years and has taught across Texas. She sparked a passion for serving GT students in Clear Creek ISD which continues today. Roxanne left the classroom in 2016 with the goal of having a larger impact on students while improving identification... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Program Options and Design

Keyword Secondary

2:30pm CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Take this extended break to connect with exhibitors, a speaker or new friend, and grab a snack provided by TAGT!

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

2:45pm CST

Calling Writers, Reviewers, and Do-ers! Learn more about TEMPO+

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST

Marriott Rivercenter 2nd & 3rd Floor

Stop by the TAGT Gathering Space in the 2nd floor foyer to learn more about all the resources available on TEMPO+ along with how you can submit proposals to be published in TAGT's online home for relevant resources for the gifted education community. We are looking for all types of resources that can help teachers, coordinators, parents, and any other stakeholders. If you are looking to get involved with TAGT and not sure where to start, reviewing resources for TEMPO+ is an easy way to begin! Check out tempo.txgifted.org to get started or stop by to learn more!

Speakers

Melanie S. Meyer

Lecturer, Baylor University

Thursday December 5, 2024 2:45pm - 3:15pm CST
Marriott Rivercenter 2nd & 3rd Floor

3:15pm CST

A Conversation with Stephanie Higgs (Live Podcast Recording)

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:00pm CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Hear more about the energy and sparkle that Stephanie Higgs, better known as Little Miss Gifted, brings to the classroom everyday.

Stephanie Higgs, best known as @littlemissgifted on Instagram, is an award-winning, Nashville-living gifted educator and differentiation coach. Stephanie is a quick thinking, fast talking, and passionate international professional development presenter who infuses a little sparkle and shine into educating gifted learners. Her sessions are always filled with immediate, easy-to-implement, FUN takeaways you'll be eager to try with your kiddos immediately. Stephanie favorite humans are teachers, and she is here to love and serve you however she can. She'll be your #1 hype girl as you strive to better yourself in the field of gifted education. Stephanie leaves a little sparkle wherever she goes, so prepare to leave her webinar feeling energized, equipped, and empowered to give your gifted education a glow up!

Speakers

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

Stephanie Higgs

Gifted Educator & Differentiation Coach, Little Miss Gifted

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

about Stephanie Higgs, best known as @littlemissgifted on Instagram, is an award-winning, Nashville-living gifted educator and differentiation coach. Stephanie is a quick thinking, fast talking, and passionate international professional development presenter who infuses a little sparkle and shine into educating gifted learners. Her sessions are always filled with immediate, easy-to-implement, FUN takeaways you'll be eager to try with your kiddos immediately. Stephanie favorite humans are teachers, and she is here to love and serve you however she can. She'll be your #1 hype girl as you strive to better yourself in the field of gifted education. Stephanie leaves a little sparkle wherever she goes, so prepare to leave her webinar feeling energized, equipped, and empowered to give your gifted education a glow up!

3:15pm CST

Do the Math: Learning Logic, Strategy and Fun at the Bridge Table

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

A hands-on overview of the fundamentals of bridge and how students can expand their knowledge of their math, logic and strategy skills while enjoying working with a partner in a fun environment. Free resources available to get you started!

Speakers

Betty Starzec

JumpStart Bridge

Betty has been involved in bridge education for more than 40 years. She has taught bridge in four different countries and worked for the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) where she accredited approximately 3,000 players to teach the game to others. Betty continues to be a consultant... Read More →

Sally Sassen

JumpStart Bridge

Sally has been teaching people to play bridge for over 25 years. She started teaching in her neighborhood when the local bridge club needed new players. She continued teaching through the Bridge Center of Austin where she is an owner and director. Sally was selected Teacher of the... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

3:15pm CST

Get Moving with NASA Design Challenges

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Over the years NASA educators have created free challenges, activities, educator guides, and even graphic novels to be used in the classroom. In this “Choose Your Own Adventure” session you will be introduced to resources tailored to your classes. This is differentiated instruction NASA style. You will be doing hands on, feet on, and who-knows-what-else on activities. So come ready to move and participate. Scaling and accommodations will be made for any adaptation you need during physical challenges.

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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

3:15pm CST

Increasing Rigor and Engagement in the Classroom: Tips and Tricks to Try Tomorrow!

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Tried and true strategies for increasing academic rigor, critical and creative thinking, and student engagement that will transform your classroom into a successful learning hub for high ability learners will be showcased, along with helpful tips, tricks, and strategies to minimize prep time and maximize impact.

Speakers

Michelle Swain

Director, Round Rock ISD

Michelle Swain serves Round Rock ISD as the Director of Gifted and Advanced Academic Services, overseeing GT identification and programming, college credit bearing coursework, and college readiness assessments. She has served on the NAGC Board and TAGT Board, including as TAGT 2011... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

3:15pm CST

Is "Deep" Deep Enough? Depth and Complexity for Gifted Students in a 3-5 ELAR classroom

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Learn strategies using Kaplan and Gould's Depth & Complexity Icons to extend the thinking of advanced learners. Teachers will integrate the icons to promote differentiated instruction, problem-based learning, and collaborative communities. The goal is cultivating critical thinkers through reading and writing strategies, preparing today’s problem solvers for real-world challenges.

Speakers

Susan Rasmussen

Extended Learning Teacher, Humble ISD

Susan Rasmussen, a seasoned educator from Indiana, blends her 20-year teaching career with a background in non-profit management and politics. As a mother of two grown children—a Longhorn and an Aggie—she brings a personal touch to her work with gifted and emergent bilingual students... Read More →

Amy Dowies

Advanced Learning Facilitator, Humble ISD

Amy proudly brings 24 years of experience in education, spanning from teaching 4th and 5th-grade classes to fulfilling roles in special education. Currently an Advanced Learning Facilitator, she's led departments and coordinated testing. Off-duty, she's a devoted parent to three musically... Read More →

Kari Emory (Christoferson)

5th grade RELA teacher, Humble ISD

Hailing from Colorado with a touch of Nicaraguan flair, Kari brings a rich tapestry of experiences to her 14-year teaching journey. Having shared her passion for learning with both 5th and 6th graders, she thrives on empowering her students to discover their voices and realize their... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Pearl 2 (2nd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

Keyword Depth & Complexity

3:15pm CST

Rural? Your Resources Limited? Check in here.

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

How can rural and small districts implement local norms and universal screening when budgets are small and coordinators’ time is limited? What can a part time G/T coordinator do? Come to collaborate, problem-solve and explore scenarios of how to creatively implement research-based best practices that work for rural schools.

Speakers

Cecelia Boswell

Educational Consultant, Austin Creek Education Systems

Celeste Sodergren

Postdoctoral Research Association, University of Connecticut

Celeste D.C. Sodergren, is a researcher-practitioner who believes in utilizing the best and most current research to inform day to day practice in educational organizations, and utilizing daily practice to inform research. Currently, she is a Doctoral Candidate in educational psychology... Read More →

Rural DGECs Problem Solving Workshop upload version pptx

Rural DGECs Problem Solving Workshop Handout pdf

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Southtown 3 (2nd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

3:15pm CST

That’s Giftedness,Too! Practical Ways to See and Support Non-Academic Giftedness

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Salon E (3rd Floor)

While traditional giftedness often focuses on academics, identifying and supporting exceptional abilities in areas such as creativity and leadership gives us the opportunity to serve every gifted learner as a unique individual. In this session, we will explore practical strategies to serve the diversity of gifts that exist in every classroom.

Speakers

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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Salon E (3rd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

3:15pm CST

Student Panel: 2024 National Math Stars

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST

Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Hear from a group of 2024 National Math Star students! These students are part of a cohort of 61 extraordinarily talented young mathematicians, selected from a pool of over 1,300 applicants spread across Texas. As a National Math Star, each student has access to our 10-year support and scholarship program designed to help them grow up to push the frontiers of math and science.

Speakers

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 →

Alex Lochoff

Head of Partnerships, National Math Stars

A self-professed math nerd, Alex began his career as a 5th-grade STEM teacher in California before joining Edpuzzle, where he led curriculum development for schools nationwide. More recently, Alex ran an education nonprofit focused on expanding college access for first-generation... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:15pm CST
Conference Room 8 (3rd Floor)

Nature and Needs of the Gifted

Keyword STEM

3:15pm CST

Using SAT Concepts and Skills to Build Intellectual Flexibility Across Disciplines

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Participants will explore important instructional considerations in light of the new Digital SAT and what we have learned so far. We will then engage in a concrete framework/routine to meaningfully use SAT concepts and skills to build critical thinking habits across disciplines and contexts.

Speakers

Alana Morris

Coordinator of High School Humanities, Spring Branch ISD

Alana Morris has been leading literacy in Texas and abroad for 36 years and has taught all levels from elementary through high school. She is currently the Coordinator of High School Humanities in Spring Branch ISD and teaches in the Education Dept. at the University of Houston. She... Read More →

Sheila Griffith

President, Knowsys Educational Services, LLC

Tracy Scholz

Director of Advanced Academic Studies, Spring Branch ISD

Dr. Tracy Scholz has been an educator for over 25 years. She has experience as a classroom teacher, department specialist, district interventionist, district coordinator, and served as the Associate Director for the Teacher Education Program at Rice University. She is a contributor... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Conference Room 1/2 (3rd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Secondary

3:15pm CST

Painting Differentiation with 3 C's: Critical Thinking, Collaboration & Creativity

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

This presentation explores gifted differentiation, emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. It highlights strategies to foster advanced problem-solving, teamwork, and innovative thinking in gifted students, ensuring their unique needs are met. Participants will learn to create enriching, challenging environments that promote intellectual growth and holistic development.

Speakers

Brigette Cardenas

G/T Program Coordinator, Mansfield ISD

She has been in education for over 22 years in many places, including Australia and South America. She is passionate about meeting the needs of GT students because as a student, her GT time was only once a week and she never felt fully challenged. As a GT Program Coordinator she helps... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Salon C/D (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

3:15pm CST

Teaching Gifted Students How to Gather Information for Research Projects Using Discipline-Based Methods

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

This session will describe how to teach gifted students in grades K-12 specific discipline-based research methods for independent study projects. Sources and methods will be linked to specific questions and aligned to TPSP steps and criteria. Opportunities will be provided for participants to discuss different methods and implementation challenges.

Speakers

Tricia Filippini

GT Specialist, Waco ISD

Tricia Filippini is in her third year as a GT specialist in Waco ISD and is currently a Ph.D. student in Educational Psychology at Baylor University, where she studies gifted education and creativity. She has a background and degrees in Museum Studies and Music Education, and she... Read More →

Susan Johnsen

Professor Emerita, Baylor

Susan K. Johnsen, PhD, is professor emerita of Educational Psychology at Baylor University. She has written three tests for identifying gifted students and more than 300 articles, monographs, technical reports, chapters, and books related to gifted education. She is editor-in-chief... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Conference Room 20/21 (3rd Floor)

Differentiated Curriculum

3:15pm CST

Who is a Gifted Multilingual Learner?

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

This session is designed to help educators become talent scouts in identifying gifted MLs. A working definition of gifted MLs, their characteristics, and barriers/promising practices in their identification will be highlighted. Several observation tools will be shared for educators to use in recognizing gifted MLs.

Speakers

Marcy Voss

Consultant, Seidlitz Education

During her 36 years in public education, Marcy coordinated GT and BL/ESL Programs, served on the TAGT Board, and was Chair of the TEA GT Advisory Council. Marcy currently serves as Facilitator for the TAGT ELP, Chair of the NABE GT/Bilingual SIG, and Advisory Board member for NCRGE... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Conference Room 3/4 (3rd Floor)

Identification and Assessment

Keyword Multilingual

3:15pm CST

Deep in the Heart of Texas: An ESC Collaborative Experience

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST

Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

In this personalized learning experience, ESC specialists from around the state will lead conversations, share ideas, and introduce strategies on specific topics through a timed rotation model. From emergent bilinguals to differentiation to family/community involvement, this session promises to address the needs of gifted learners from different perspectives.

Speakers

ESC Region Specialists

ESC region specialists from across Texas

Thursday December 5, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm CST
Salon A/B (3rd Floor)

Nature and Needs of the Gifted

4:15pm CST

Connect in the Marketplace

Thursday December 5, 2024 4:15pm - 4:30pm CST

Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

Thursday December 5, 2024 4:15pm - 4:30pm CST
Salon Ballroom Foyer (3rd Floor)

4:15pm CST

A Conversation with Wendy Behrens (Live Podcast Recording)

Thursday December 5, 2024 4:15pm - 5:00pm CST

Conference Room 5 (3rd Floor)

Learn more about Wendy's dedication to equitable educational opportunities and why she believes this work is so important.

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, and chapters and frequently presents to national and international audiences on comprehensive service design, acceleration, under-served populations, and policies that support highly able learners.

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 →

Michael Flusche

Comedian & G/T Director, Curtis Needs A Ride

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

4:30pm CST

Speed Geeking

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

Salon Ballroom G-M (3rd Floor)

End your day with this energizing session where you will walk away with loads of instructional strategies and tech tools! Andi and Brian will facilitate presenters rotating every 3-4 minutes and share with you the best and latests tips and resources you can take back with you and start using right away!

Speakers

Andi McNair

GT Specialists, ESC Region 12

Brian Housand

Coordinator, University of North Carolina Wilmington

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

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword STEM

4:30pm CST

Unlocking Potential: How Your Students Can Change the World

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

Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Discover how to ignite your gifted students and spark a passion for real-world change! This session equips you with real-world strategies to cultivate creativity, problem-solving, and leveraging local issues for project-based learning, empowering students to become changemakers in their communities and motivating students, including underachievers.

Speakers

Robin Johnson

Doctoral Candidate, University of North Texas

Robin Johnson is a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Psychology at UNT specializing in Gifted Education. Her research investigates the transformative potential of place-based education for gifted students in small, rural school districts. Leveraging her 26 years of experience as a... Read More →

Grizelle Larriviel

UNT Doctoral Candidate, Irving ISD

Grizelle Larriviel, a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Psychology at UNT, studies gifted education while inspiring young minds in Irving ISD. Her research fuses Vygotsky and Bronfenbrenner's theories to empower CLED students in gifted programs and their teachers. Passionate about... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2024 4:30pm - 5:30pm CST
Pearl 1 (2nd Floor)

Creativity and Instructional Strategies

Keyword Social Emotional Needs

4:30pm CST

Gifted/Talented Updated Rules and State Plan

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

Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

The session will address the SBOE approved changes to TAC 89: Gifted Education and to the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented Students in program services. Topics include 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 →

Thursday December 5, 2024 4:30pm - 5:30pm CST
Pearl 3 (2nd Floor)

Law and Policy

Keyword Coordinators/Specialists

4:30pm CST

Success in Cluster Grouping: Making it Work Using Local Norms

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

Salon E (3rd Floor)

Cluster grouping has become the de-facto method for serving gifted learners. The model, used with two additional current trends, universal testing and using building norms, completes the process of increasing inclusion in gifted services. Learn methods for developing and supporting an inclusive cluster-grouping model in any school or district.

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

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

Program Options and Design