Books for Teachers and GT Specialists
The Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted (WATG) is proud to offer Summer Scholarships to support gifted students in pursuing enriching educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom. These scholarships provide financial assistance for students to attend summer programs, camps, and other specialized learning opportunities that align with their unique talents and interests. Whether exploring STEM, the arts, leadership, or other advanced studies, our scholarships help ensure that all gifted students have access to meaningful growth experiences. WATG is committed to fostering the potential of Wisconsin's gifted youth by expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities.
As part of the application, students must submit either an essay or a video/multimedia presentation, along with one reference letter from a teacher or a non-family member. The essay or presentation should address the following:
- Personal background and advanced enrichment needs.
- A description of the summer program or class you wish to attend and the reasons for your interest in it.
- An explanation of why you believe you are a strong candidate for this scholarship.
Student Summer Scholarships
Logo Contest
Calling all creative K-12 students across Wisconsin! Each year, Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted invites students to design a logo for our Annual Conference, and we're excited to see your creativity shine.
Deadline Extended: April 15, 2025 at midnight
Theme for the 2025 Conference: Take a Chance on Gifted Education!
Conference Dates: October 5–7, 2025
Location: Wisconsin Dells
Size: No larger than 4" x 4"
Color: Black and white only
Adaptability: Must be scalable (use bold lettering and simple, non-intricate designs)
Submit your original logo design to help us represent this year's theme! Winning artwork will be featured in conference materials and recognized statewide.
How to Submit: Email your logo to watg@watg.org
The Cluster Grouping Handbook
Description: A revised and expanded guide to implementing cluster grouping (placing a small number of gifted students together in general education classrooms) at a school‑wide level.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Supports equity by challenging gifted kids within a mixed classroom; gives concrete, tested strategies, forms, and guidance for sustainable implementation.
Ideal for: Administrators, gifted coordinators, and teachers wanting to set up or improve cluster grouping
Link: https://amzn.to/4o8oXYb
Differentiation and the Brain
Description: Explains how neuroscience (how the brain learns) can inform differentiated instruction; offers concrete strategies grounded in brain research.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Helps teachers understand cognitive diversity and design learning environments that respect readiness, interest, and learning profile – key for gifted learners.
Ideal for: Teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders looking to ground differentiation in science and brain‑based practice
Link: https://amzn.to/43IeHP3
Outliers: The Story of Success
Description: A popular book that examines the unexpected factors (culture, family, timing) that contribute to outliers’ success rather than just individual talent.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Reminds us that success isn’t just about natural ability – context, opportunity, and hard work play huge roles, which is valuable perspective for high-achieving students.
Ideal for: Gifted students, educators, and parents who want to reflect on what “success” really means and how to support sustained growth
Link: https://amzn.to/4pekOmu
A Teacher’s Guide to Using the Common Core
Description: Published by the National Association for Gifted Children, this guide shows how to adapt the CCSS for more advanced learners using depth, complexity, acceleration, and creativity.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Makes the Common Core work for high-ability students, helping teachers avoid “drill and kill” while ensuring standards are met in a meaningful way.
Ideal for: Teachers, curriculum specialists, and administrators working with gifted students under CCSS frameworks
Link: https://amzn.to/48qzRUs
Teaching Gifted Kids in Today’s Classroom
Description: A practical workbook of strategies, routines, and tools for integrating gifted instruction into everyday classroom practice.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Provides hands-on, teacher-tested methods to differentiate, compact curriculum, and challenge students without overhauling everything.
Ideal for: Classroom teachers who want to meet the needs of gifted learners within the regular education setting
Link: https://amzn.to/4pgCDkF
When Gifted Kids Don’t Have All the Answers
Description: Offers advice on how to help gifted students who are under stress, perfectionistic, or struggling to find direction – with strategies for both students and parents.
Why It’s Great for Gifted Students: Helps them (and their support networks) navigate the emotional landscape that can come with high ability, identity, and pressure.
Ideal for: Gifted adolescents, their parents, and educators looking for social‑emotional tool
Link: https://amzn.to/3MbYviR
