GAM 2024 Conference (Gifted Association of Missouri): Full Schedule

We can’t wait to see all of us in Columbia!

Registration

Registration starting Sept 1: $350

Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-gifted-association-of-missouri-annual-conference-registration-879505032227

PLC Hours

For teachers who need professional learning clock hours, this conference provides 7.5 hours of content on the nature and needs of gifted, advanced, and neurodiverse learners. Certificates of attendance will be provided for attendees who request a certificate.

Parking
Hitt Street Parking Garage Visitor Parking: Please see the Mizzou parking policies for more information. Kiosks or a phone app are available for payments.

2024 Preferred Hotels

Hampton Inn & Suites at the University of Missouri

1225 Fellows Place, Columbia, MO 65201

573-214-2222

October 6-8

Rate of $125/night is good October 3 - 11 for extended stays.
Guests responsible for individual rooms and charges.
Rooms will be released back to the public on September 9, 2024.
Free breakfast, free parking, free wifi, and indoor pool/fitness.

Online Reservations Link: https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=COUUMHX&groupCode=CHH91A&arrivaldate=2024-10-06&departuredate=2024-10-08&cid=OM,WW,HILTONLINK,EN,DirectLink&fromId=HILTONLINKDIRECT

Reservations may also be made by calling the hotel.

Drury Plaza Hotel - Columbia East

3100 Interstate 70 Dr SE, Columbia, MO 65201

573-441-0090

Rate is $124 for stays during October 6 - 8.
Free breakfast, free parking, free wifi, free evening reception, and indoor pool/fitness center
Released back to public on September 4, 2024.

Online Reservation Link:

https://www.druryhotels.com/bookandstay/newreservation/?groupno=10104045

Reservations may also be made by calling 1-800-325-0720 and referring to your group number 10104045.

Break-out Session Schedule-at-a-Glance (See full schedule on tab)

9:15am CDT

Fostering Talent: Equitable Strategies for Gifted and Neurodivergent Learners

Monday October 7, 2024 9:15am - 10:00am CDT

N214 C

How might educators begin to create an equitable impact for all gifted learners, including neurodivergent learners in their classrooms? This session teaches participants about research-based activities and tools for how to spot talent and strengths in all gifted learners. With practice, participants can apply these tools in their classrooms to seek additional understanding of their students’ strengths, talents, and interests. In turn, these best practices will allow educators to increase their familiarity, knowledge, and skills to refer neurodivergent learners for gifted services in K-12 settings.

Monday October 7, 2024 9:15am - 10:00am CDT
N214 C

Unity

Audience Educators

2:45pm CDT

Intelligence and Intimate Relationships: What the Gifted Population Needs in a Partner

Monday October 7, 2024 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT

N214 C

Relationships and community are the number one key to happiness, as discovered by a Harvard research study, and gifted relationships should be no exception. Based on a research project completed by Mizzou student Lauren Huff in 2023-24, this presentation describes what traits are beneficial for gifted individuals to have in a partner, and offers suggestions on how to handle common conflicts that may arise in a relationship where one or both partners are gifted. Anyone curious about how to improve their own relationships, or what to look for when exploring potential partners, can benefit from this presentation.

Speakers

Lauren Huff

Student, University of Missouri-Columbia

Monday October 7, 2024 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT
N214 C

Unity

Audience Educators, Administrators, Parents, Teens

3:45pm CDT

Creating Inclusive and Supportive Environments for LGBTQ+ Gifted Students

Monday October 7, 2024 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT

N214 B

This session aims to equip educators with the knowledge and strategies needed to support LGBTQ+ gifted students in both gifted and regular classrooms. It will address the unique challenges these students face and provide practical approaches to create inclusive and supportive learning environments. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand current LGBTQ+ terminology and the importance of using correct pronouns. 2. Develop strategies to create classrooms of belonging for LGBTQ+ gifted students. 3. Recognize the mental health risks specific to LGBTQ+ gifted students and identify ways to support their well-being.

Speakers

Shannon Fuller

Teacher, North Kansas City Schools

Monday October 7, 2024 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT
N214 B

Unity

Audience Administrators, Educators, Parents

10:15am CDT

Empowering Rural Gifted Education: Cultivating Local Agency Through Innovative Practice

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

N214 B

This session explores the transformative potential of rural gifted education programming, emphasizing the cultivation of local agency among students and their communities. Using a compelling narrative rooted in a rural classroom's connection with a nonprofit organization in Kenya, this presentation illustrates how innovative practices can empower students to take ownership of their educational journeys. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the unique needs and opportunities in rural gifted education and practical strategies to empower students through innovative practices. This session aims to inspire educators to foster local agency and resilience, driving meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

Speakers

Shannon Fuller

Teacher, North Kansas City Schools

Dr. Stephanie McKoy

Teacher of Gifted and Science, Branson School District

Tuesday October 8, 2024 10:15am - 11:00am CDT
N214 B

Unity

Audience Administrators, Educators