Gifted and Talented

Nature and Needs
Gifted learners have distinct cognitive, social, and emotional needs that require intentional support. This session explores key characteristics, dispels common myths, and provides strategies to foster their growth. Educators will leave with a foundational understanding of how to create an inclusive and enriching learning environment for GT students.
This session will meet on September 23, 2026 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Identification Assessment
Accurate and equitable identification of gifted students requires multiple measures beyond standardized tests. This session covers best practices for recognizing talent in diverse populations, using formal and informal assessments, and ensuring an inclusive GT program. Participants will explore strategies to improve identification processes in their districts and schools.
This session will meet on October 15, 2026 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at our Cleveland location.
New GT Coordinator Meeting
This session will provide new district G/T coordinators with the knowledge and skills needed to begin this position with direction and understanding, while providing the resources to effectively build and maintain appropriate educational services for G/T students in the district. This session will include an overview of Texas G/T state and local policy, the Texas State Plan for the Education of G/T Students, identification and assessment, professional development requirements, and building internal and external relationships. Participants will leave this Academy with connections to the G/T community and a network of fellow leaders, new and experienced, to call on throughout the year.
This session will meet on October 21, 2026 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at our Cleveland location.
GT Coordinator Meeting
This session will provide updates for district G/T coordinators with the knowledge and skills for providing the resources to effectively build and maintain appropriate educational services for G/T students in the district. This session will include an overview of Texas G/T state and local policy, the Texas State Plan for the Education of G/T Students, identification and assessment, professional development requirements, and building internal and external relationships. Participants will leave this Academy with connections to the G/T community and a network of fellow leaders, new and experienced, to call on throughout the year.
This session will meet on October 21, 2026 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at our Cleveland location.
Depth & Complexity
The Depth and Complexity framework provides a powerful way to challenge gifted students. This session introduces the icons, their classroom applications, and strategies for deepening student inquiry across subjects. Participants will gain tools to scaffold learning and promote advanced critical thinking.
This session will meet on October 27, 2026 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Differentiated Instruction
Gifted learners need instruction that challenges them at their level, not just extra work. This session provides strategies to differentiate content, process, and product while fostering engagement and deeper thinking. Educators will learn how to create dynamic learning experiences that meet the needs of all gifted students.
This session will meet on November 19, 2026 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Bright and Complex: Understanding the Twice-Exceptional Experience
Twice-exceptional (2e) students possess remarkable gifts alongside learning differences that create uniquely complex profiles. In this session, participants will learn how to identify 2e learners, understand their characteristics, and address both their strengths and challenges. Walk away with practical strategies to support, nurture, and empower twice-exceptional students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
This session will meet on November 9, 2026 from 9:00am to 4:00pm
Creativity & Critical Thinking
Creativity and critical thinking are essential skills for gifted learners to develop problem-solving and innovation. This session explores techniques such as open-ended questioning, real-world problem-solving, and divergent thinking strategies. Educators will leave with practical methods to inspire originality and deeper inquiry in their students. This session will meet on December 10, 2026 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.