Supporting Each Other

I recently returned from an international professional conference at which some educators and parents of gifted students got together to discuss the state of gifted education in their schools.  It was a diverse group of educators and parents from many different states.  Many commented how interesting it was to listen to the options for gifted students in other places.  Some teachers talked about the resources and instructional practices they are able to use school-wide on an individualized basis such as subject and full-grade acceleration, and technology access for projects even in needy schools.  Not everyone had those resources or practices available in their school.  Some parents talked about a singular teacher who made a major difference in their child’s life who became a mentor and friend even far after that grade level. All talked about frustration at not being able to identify and reach gifted students in their school district, or other districts because of lack of funding, lack of state and local support, and the myths and misunderstanding of gifted students by the vast majority of people.  

Everyone left the meeting vowing to support each other, regardless of location, to impact gifted education in their local area and state, and to share resources and practices.  While there are listservs available throughout the country it was interesting to see the close connection built in a short period of time among people who were free to talk about gifted students in a non-judgmental place.  This perhaps was the greatest result of this meeting.  Both parents and teachers could speak freely about gifted students without fear of misunderstanding and judgment from others.  I encourage you to try to find that place in your area.  Try to find a parent and/or teacher with whom you can talk freely because they understand gifted students.  Knowing one is not alone is a way to find comfort and support on this incredible journey with amazing gifted students.  See the following websites for support.

“The Care and Feeding of Gifted Parent Groups:  A Guide for Gifted Coordinators, Teachers and Parent Advocates” by Dr. Wenda Sheard
http://www.nsgt.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/article_sheard_parent_groups.pdf

Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted,  www.sengifted.org

“Tips for Teachers:  Successful Strategies for Teaching Gifted Learners”
http://www.davidsongifted.org/Search-Database/entry/A10075

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