This workshop aims to inspire educators and educational professionals to harness the power of passion projects as a transformative tool for creating engaging and purposeful learning experiences. Discover how embracing a "messy" approach to learning can ignite students' curiosity, foster their creativity, and cultivate a deep sense of meaning and ownership in their educational journey. Throughout our time together, we will also explore how Genius Hour unlocks the potential to identify and nurture gifted qualities such as creativity and leadership. Through practical strategies, personal examples, and collaborative discussions, participants will gain valuable insights on how to integrate passion projects into their teaching practices, empowering students to pursue their interests while developing critical skills and achieving meaningful learning outcomes.

Audience: Teachers, Coordinators, and Administrators // Interactive Level: Lecture with some discussion

Are you tired of seeing your gifted learners disengaged and frustrated with busywork? In this insightful learning experience, you'll discover how to create meaningful experiences that engage and empower gifted learners. Using a simple framework, you'll learn how to design differentiated learning experiences that will result in a willingness to invest, cultivate lifelong learning, and encourage authentic connections beyond the classroom walls.

You'll also gain insights into the importance of integrating life-ready and social-emotional learning skills into your lessons and take away practical ideas that can be implemented immediately. By the end of the experience, you'll have a new perspective on differentiation and a deeper understanding of how crucial it is to plan for all learners, not just those who struggle to understand. Join us to take the first step towards creating a classroom environment that supports and empowers gifted learners!

Audience: Educators, Coordinators, Administrators // Interactive Level: Information lecture with some discussion

"The Struggle is Real: Embracing and Encouraging Productive Struggle for Gifted Learners" is a workshop that highlights the significance of embracing the inherent challenges faced by gifted learners. Productive struggle helps individuals develop resilience and grit, which are essential qualities for success beyond the walls of the classroom. When students face difficult tasks and persevere through challenges, they build the capacity to handle setbacks and continue striving for their goals, even in the face of adversity. Discover how productive struggle fosters intellectual growth and equips these learners with invaluable skills for lifelong success. Through practical strategies and important insights, gain the tools and knowledge to effectively support and encourage gifted learners as they navigate complex problems and tasks. Don't miss this opportunity to empower gifted learners and transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and achievement.

Audience: Educators, Coordinators, Administrators // Interactive Level: Informational lecture with some discussion

In this workshop, educators will gain invaluable insights into addressing the often overlooked social and emotional needs of gifted students. Designed for educators, counselors, and stakeholders invested in meeting the needs of gifted learners, this workshop will explore the unique challenges faced by gifted learners and will equip participants with practical strategies and tools to provide targeted support. Throughout our time together, we will engage in meaningful discussions that will ensure that educators acquire the knowledge and resources necessary to foster a nurturing environment that promotes the social and emotional well-being of gifted learners, enabling them to thrive academically and personally.

Audience: Teachers, Coordinators, Administrators, Counselors // Interactive Level: Informational lecture with some discussion