Mrs. Wheaton takes care of so many kids on so many levels. We are blessed to have her at UCPS. She teaches a full load on top of GSSPs, providing services and helping our GT student find opportunities to grow.

In the attached photo, some of her favorites stuck tattoos of their favorite teacher on their hand! From middle schoolers, this is the highest form of flattery.

Mrs. Dozier has been the Best Gifted/ALP teacher I've ever had, and also saying that, she's been the best Teacher overall. She has a great attitude and comes to school every day with a smile on her face.

Our TAG coordinator is inspirational, always blending high-level academic enrichment with a passion for student growth. She doesn't just design effective and engaging curriculum; she also ensures its success by meeting regularly with students to provide the personalized support they need to thrive in our classrooms. She is also the driving force behind our school's extensive club and contest scene, consistently dedicating her time to supervise and mentor students as they explore new challenges. Her greatest strengths lie in her amazing flexibility and collaboration with students and staff. We are incredibly fortunate to have Aletia and her endless dedication at Lake Oswego Middle School!

Alli has been a vital member of the growing gifted department at SDP serving as gifted coordinator. Her background and experience in special education have helped advance opportunities for 2e learners in Philadelphia. We also appreciate her leadership in supporting professional development related to gifted education!

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

In honor of Ms. Cooper: Because her gifted and talented students feel seen, challenged, and deeply cared for. She believes in their brilliance, celebrates their growth, and creates a classroom where imagination, confidence, and kindness can thrive. She goes beyond teaching lessons by developing student leadership, fostering advanced research, and strengthening critical thinking in meaningful and engaging ways. Ms. Cooper helps students recognize their gifts, grow in confidence, and see the greatness in themselves. We love Ms. Cooper and are so thankful for her influence in our lives.

As the Gifted Specialist at Mountain Ridge High School, Andrea Jewett is dedicated to bridging the gap between secondary education and future success. She routinely collaborates with students and teachers to optimize learning outcomes and ensure students are prepared to 'launch' into higher education and the workforce. A recognized leader in her field, Andrea also facilitates specialized teacher training at the campus and district levels to elevate gifted instruction.

There are teachers who stand at the front of a room and deliver content. And then there are educators like Andrea who breathe life into every child who walks through their door. I am honoring Andrea because she is the rare kind of teacher who makes you believe that a single person truly can change the trajectory of a child's life.

Andrea is a former NAGC Javits Frasier Scholar, a distinction that speaks to her deep, research-backed commitment to gifted education, a field that too often goes overlooked in schools that are simply trying to survive. She didn't just study best practices. She became one. Named Teacher of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year, Andrea has earned the admiration of colleagues, families, and administrators who witness, day after day, what genuine dedication looks like in practice.

But awards and credentials only tell part of her story.

Andrea serves a Title I school, a community where resources are stretched thin and the stakes for every child are extraordinarily high. She shows up not just as a classroom teacher, but as the Social Studies Lead, shaping curriculum and guiding her peers. She also leads the Sunshine Committee, because she understands something profound: that joy, belonging, and community are not luxuries in a school, they are the foundation on which learning is built.

She holds space for the whole child. For the gifted student who needs to be challenged. For the child who needs to feel seen. For the colleague who needs encouragement. For the school that needs heart.

That is why I am honoring Andrea. Not simply because of what she has accomplished, but because of who she is to every student, colleague, and community member fortunate enough to call her their own.

She does not just teach children. She believes in them. And that changes everything.

Anndra, a certified K-12 music teacher, is back in the role of an itinerant gifted support teacher in the School District of Philadelphia. As an advocate of the arts, she brings her passion for creativity to discussions on gifted identification and service delivery. In addition, she is a champion for the social-emotional needs of the gifted and ensures a deep dive into each child's unique needs.

Gifted educators have a profound impact, often shaping lives in ways that go unseen and uncelebrated. This Teacher Appreciation Month, we are proud to recognize Anne Joyce, gifted teacher at Roger Ludlowe Middle School, for the extraordinary dedication and passion she brings to her work each day.

Anne consistently goes above and beyond in delivering our Gifted Curriculum, creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences that truly inspire students. From immersive mock trials to creative escape rooms and dynamic staff presentations from her students, she brings learning to life in unique and memorable ways. Her commitment extends beyond her classroom—Anne actively collaborates with general education teachers to support student thinking and provide enriching extensions for curious learners.

She also fosters a culture of exploration and growth by leading school-wide opportunities, including coordinating contests that help students discover and pursue their passions. Most recently, she oversaw the Women in History Writing Contest in partnership with our local state senator, empowering students to connect their learning with the wider world.

Anne Joyce exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her impact is lasting, her enthusiasm is contagious, and our school community is truly fortunate to have her at Roger Ludlowe Middle School.

This teacher's impact is evident in the way she challenges and inspires gifted learners every day. Her dedication to creating engaging, thought-provoking experiences ensures that students continue to grow, achieve, and reach their full potential.

Audrey is a phenomenal gifted teacher. She loves motivating her students to think outside of the box and is always encouraging them to "stretch their brains". She is highly effective, providing challenging experiences but also prioritizes nurturing their identities and advocating for consistent opportunities. She is compassionate and dedicated to supporting the emotional and social growth of her students. She is an amazing mentor and is always available for guidance. She has great relationships with her parents and colleagues, managing effective communication with all stakeholders involved. She maintains a commitment to equitable identification and access for all our students. She is truly a phenomenal asset to Montgomery Public Schools and I am so blessed to work alongside her.

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Ms. Jackson, a dedicated first-grade Gifted and Talented teacher at Carter Academy, has spent over three decades transforming the lives of young learners through her passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence in gifted education. Her classroom is a place where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is celebrated, and each child is challenged to reach their fullest potential.

Throughout her distinguished career, Ms. Jackson has demonstrated an exceptional ability to recognize and cultivate the unique strengths of gifted students at an early age. She creates engaging, differentiated learning experiences that not only meet academic needs but also support the social and emotional development of her students an essential component of gifted education.

Her influence extends far beyond her classroom. Many of her former students have gone on to pursue careers in education themselves, a powerful testament to the inspiration and mentorship she provides. Ms. Jackson doesn't just teach content; she instills confidence, ignites passion, and models what it means to be a lifelong learner and leader.

She has been a cornerstone of Carter Academy, shaping generations of students and leaving a legacy of excellence that will continue for years to come. Ms. Jackson exemplifies the very best of gifted education, and it is with deep gratitude and admiration that I would like to recognize her contributions.

She does amazing and creative work to support gifted students both academically but also emotionally.

Dr. Bonne Breese Bentum, or Dr. Triple B, has been an educator in Philadelphia for more than two decades and joined the itinerant gifted teacher role this school year. A powerful advocate for marginalized populations in both her personal and professional work, Dr. B uses positivity and relationships to drive change that enhances schools' ability to identify gifted students and provide experiences customized for each one. Driven by equity, Bonnee actively seeks learning opportunities for herself to drive continuous improvement in support of gifted students.

Mrs. Valdez creates a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning from an early age. Through engaging, differentiated lessons, she challenges students while supporting their social-emotional growth and development of executive functioning skills. Her students are lucky to have her!

Gifted educators change lives in ways that often go unseen, but never unfelt. This Teacher Appreciation Month, I want to recognize: Mrs. Abby Coffman.

Thank you for inspiring me to pursue certification and for opening the door to this incredible world, one full of challenges, depth, and purpose, where I can serve as a bridge between my ESL students and the High Ability program, supporting our twice-exceptional learners.

Your exceptional work, your genuine kindness, and your gift for teaching shine through in everything you do. You are an outstanding mentor who leads with clear, practical examples and a generosity that leaves a lasting impact on everyone around you.

Mrs. Coffman you are one of the most impactful educators in my journey, my coordinator, and someone I have felt close to from day one.

Thank you for believing in me and for guiding so many of us with both excellence and heart.

Brooke is a shining light at our elementary schools as a pull out GT teacher. She helps teachers and gets the excitement of GT happening at a young level. Her students do projects and partner with other school groups, like Girls who Code. She is a blessing to so many!

Carrie Jarrell, along with Jessie Matthews, was a driving force for introducing the Invention Convention competition to Alabama, giving kids across the state opportunities to stretch their creativity and learn about entrepreneurship.

I would like to honor Ms. Keelen, our incredible Gifted Coordinator, during the National Association for Gifted Children's Teacher Appreciation Month for the profound impact she has on both students and staff. Her dedication to supporting gifted learners goes far beyond expectations'she consistently creates opportunities that challenge, inspire, and nurture each student's unique abilities.

This year alone, we had a record-breaking 121 students participate in the GT project, a testament to her ability to inspire engagement and excitement in advanced learning. She also hosted a meaningful SEL Night for our students, creating space for social-emotional growth and connection, an essential part of supporting the whole child. These are only a few examples of what she does, as her contributions extend far beyond what can be easily listed.

In addition to her work as Gifted Coordinator, Ms. Keelen serves as a campus counselor, where she continues to make a difference every single day. She supports students with compassion and care, helping them navigate challenges while building confidence and resilience.

Ms. Keelen is also a source of support and guidance for teachers. She collaborates thoughtfully, shares valuable resources, and helps create an environment where excellence in education is celebrated and achievable. Her positive attitude and genuine care uplift everyone around her.

Honoring Ms. Keelen is a way to recognize not just what she does, but the meaningful and lasting impact she makes every day. She truly embodies the spirit of excellence, compassion, and dedication that Teacher Appreciation Month represents.

Mrs. Ostapack has unique and creative ways to tap into the potential of her students and help to develop their academic and social skills. Her work with our younger students envelopes our vision to ignite a passion for learning. Her engaging lessons provide the deep learning that our youngest students need to thrive.

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Cynthia has become an incredible advocate for gifted education in the Philadelphia area. She brings with her a wealth of experience that supports navigating gifted education challenges. As an itinerant gifted support teacher, Cynthia’s approach to working with school teams has helped schools to change processes and procedures to support gifted education with an asset focus!

Miss Luyster is special because she sees every student as an individual, not just a name on a roster. She takes the time to understand each child's strengths, challenges, and dreams.

Ms. Luyster consistently provides enriching and differentiated instruction that pushes students to think deeply, collaborate effectively, and apply their knowledge in creative ways. Beyond academics, she supports students' growth in problem-solving, perseverance, and executive functioning skills. All of this helps each child in her class reach their full potential!

Dana has been a dedicated advocate for the district's gifted students, making a concerted effort to deepen her understanding while educating colleagues, students, and families about the diverse expressions of giftedness. She is committed to meeting students where they are and supporting them as they develop toward their full potential.

As the Gifted Specialist at Terramar Academy of the Arts, Danielle Kasten is dedicated to advancing gifted education. She partners with Gifted Cluster Teachers to optimize student outcomes, offering expert guidance and specialized training to ensure every gifted and talented student receives the challenge and support they require.

My gifted educator, Ms. Despoina is a person with an impressive educational and cultural background, she participates in many educational projects contributing to the educational community, and in each project she proves that she is a very conscientious, hard-working, imaginative, creative and friendly person.

She has impressive knowledge of her work which helps to enrich the giftedness program, with large-scale awards and she also participates in conferences and competitions. She is a pioneer and a point of reference for giftedness in Greece but also for innovative educational methods.

Gifted educators change lives in ways that often go unseen, but never unfelt. This Teacher Appreciation Month, I want to honor: Dr. Albrecht.

She has been a mentor to a great majority of gifted education teachers in Indiana and a constant source of respect and gratitude for generously sharing her passion and expertise in the field.

Beyond the classroom, she is always there for anyone in need of guidance, a leading authority in high ability and gifted education whose knowledge and generosity extend far beyond our years of formation.

Dear Dr Albrecht, your dedication to sparking curiosity, nurturing each student's unique potential, and advocating for gifted learners continues to inspire so many.

Thank you for transforming lives every day and for being a true pillar in gifted education.

Dr. Rowe Van Meter is a longtime gifted coordinator, our NAGC affiliate (AAGT) Vice President of our board, and the west side lead for our gifted coordinator state network. She is always the first to do the work in the classroom alongside her teachers. She puts on amazing parent events. She creates experiences during the year and summer for gifted and talented children. She spends her summer planning PD for her teachers. She volunteers 40+ hours a month on competing programs and initiatives, moving gifted education forward in Arizona. She leads our student network, she works with our state department on growing leadership in gifted methodologies, and supports with in person and asynchronous endorsement coursework for educators across Arizona. If anyone puts the time in for our gifted kids and would ever ever expect recognition for it, it would be her.

She helped me fully understand how to study and changed the way in which I approach my school work!

Ms. Demmons has created curiosity in her science students and inspired amazing projects for the science fair each year. She works with the students to prepare them for the event, practicing how to present their information, and how to answer questions. She brings in volunteers from GA Tech to rate the projects on the first round so that only the very best move forward to the county level. Her students are excited about what they learn and the chance to show it off. All of this is on top of continuing to teach physical science and challenge the students to tackle difficult concepts.

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Imani pours into the students of Mirman School, wearing many hats with grace, compassion, and care. She is an exemplary educator of the gifted and an asset to the community.

Through her innovative teaching and unwavering commitment, this teacher creates an engaging environment where gifted learners are challenged, supported, and inspired. Her passion for excellence empowers students to think deeply, take intellectual risks, and grow beyond expectations.

Ms Lovell is very supportive to the childs growth and development

Very detailed study plans provided by Ms Lovell help my child in every step of study.She also gives detailed study plans to make learning and exam prep very relaxed and takes on the additional responsibility of the planning which takes the work off the parents.

Students are more responsible under her care.

My child was not formally identified as gifted, but I had suspected it since he was 4. He was already diagnosed with multiple disabilities. Given what I know about giftedness, I originally sought out a charter school designed for gifted children. Despite the messaging the school presented, I found nothing but barriers and a focus on the disabilities. After a year of navigating the identification for services unsuccessfully, I moved my child to Rudy Elementary.

While my child was not formally identified, I connected with Ms. Belcher to discuss potential enrichment support as part of his 504 plan. She was eager and willing which deeply contrasted the journey I had been on with my child previously. Despite my child not being a student of hers, she acknowledged what I saw and offered resources while we waited on testing. After my child was flagged for the G/T screener for additional testing, she reached out about the possibilities. What I find most unique is she understood 2E, the struggles with formal identification, and proactively offered pathways we could explore for both testing and support. Ms. Belcher even offered reading material for me as a struggling parent. I invited Ms. Belcher to my child's 504 planning meeting and I was grateful she said yes. My child has since been formally identified thanks to Ms. Belcher looking at prior testing and submitting his case.

To some I am sure this isn't that extraordinary since this is what school staff should do. Parents of 2E children however know how rare this is. For years the sole focus of my child has been his behavior and disabilities. Each struggle is looked at as a character flaw or a parenting failure. The intersectionality of giftedness and disabilities is still being explored and is too difficult or confusing for many in gifted education to grasp. The extra mile that Ms. Belcher went to acknowledge my child as a unique individual and explore the "what if" with me fundamentally changed my own perspective of my child which in turn, will change the trajectory of my advocacy for him. When every professional is telling you as a parent there must be more consequences, medications, consistency, practice, and support despite pouring your heart and soul into these and not seeing a difference it changes how you view yourself and your child. I just needed one person to try to see what I saw and break the cycle of this negative view, Ms. Belcher did that.

She's done so so much for all of us in her class. I've learned so much this year from her and really appreciate all she does. She not only teaches us but makes us feel cared for and like we really matter.

Mrs. Lichtenfeld is consistently designing lessons that challenges students to think critically, explore new ideas, and engage deeply with the content. By fostering problem-solving, creativity, and strong executive functioning skills, she helps each child develop both academically and personally. Her dedication and enthusiasm helps to inspire a love of learning within all of her students!

Jessie, along with Carrie Jarrell, was a driving force for introducing the Invention Convention competition to Alabama, giving kids across the state opportunities to stretch their creativity and learn about entrepreneurship.

Mrs. Porras is consistently design engaging and rigorous instruction that challenges students to think critically, solve complex problems, and explore their passions in meaningful ways. Through intentional support of executive functioning, creativity, and independence, she creates a classroom environment where all students feel empowered to grow. Her dedication to meeting diverse academic and social-emotional needs, while fostering a love of learning, makes her an outstanding teacher!

With a strong commitment to excellence, this teacher goes above and beyond to meet the needs of gifted students through engaging and rigorous instruction. She also excels in her role as a testing coordinator, handling responsibilities with organization, efficiency, and a high level of professionalism. Her ability to manage complex tasks while keeping students at the center of her work speaks to her dedication and positive impact on the entire program.

Thank you, Katie, for everything you do for the gifted programs and services in El Dorado, Arkansas. No effort is too much for you when students are involved. I love watching how you lead implementation of our Javits curriculum for over a decade. Great insights! Great questions! Great vision of just what your students and your colleagues need next.

Ms. Coffey brings exceptional dedication to our PreK gifted program, creating a nurturing environment where every young learner is seen, challenged, and celebrated. Her tireless commitment goes far beyond the classroom! She actively strengthens our school community and ensures each child's unique potential is recognized from the very start. We are incredibly grateful for the heart, skill, and energy she pours into shaping the foundation of our students' lifelong love of learning.

This teacher's impact is evident in the way she challenges and inspires gifted learners every day. Her dedication to creating engaging, thought-provoking experiences ensures that students are continuously growing, achieving, and reaching their full potential.

This teacher consistently demonstrates exceptional creativity and enthusiasm in designing learning experiences that truly challenge gifted students. Her dedication to nurturing advanced thinking and curiosity has a lasting impact, inspiring students to reach their highest potential. In addition, she has embraced new responsibilities with confidence and professionalism, stepping into new tasks and excelling in ways that directly benefit students. Her flexibility and commitment to growth further highlight her positive impact on both students and the program.

With a strong commitment to excellence, this teacher goes above and beyond to meet the needs of gifted students through engaging and rigorous instruction. She also excels in her role as a testing coordinator, handling responsibilities with organization, efficiency, and a high level of professionalism. Her ability to manage complex tasks while keeping students at the center of her work speaks to her dedication and positive impact on the entire program.

Leah Thayer represents the very best of what it means to dedicate an entire career to a cause. With decades of unwavering commitment to gifted and advanced learners, she has been the backbone of our district's gifted program. If we changed it, it's probably something she advocated for (computerized identification testing, universal screeners, local norming, updated policy and practices, on-site service, identification beginning in kindergarten, increased use of accelerations, GT roles on district-level teams, and many more). Her institutional knowledge and tireless advocacy have fundamentally transformed how we identify, support, and accelerate our most advanced students. She is not simply a leader in the department; she is the architect of equity and excellence in gifted education. Her impact extends to other districts and states through the work she adds on in her consulting and training business, and the innovation she has spearheaded in one district is now spreading. Even leaders at the state's department of education turn to her when they need input or support in the area of gifted education.

A Legacy of Advocacy

For decades, Leah Thayer has been a fierce and unyielding advocate for gifted and advanced students. When others saw barriers, she saw possibilities. When systems needed changing, she led the charge. Her steadfast belief in the potential of every advanced learners regardless of background or circumstances has shaped the culture of our entire district. This is not a recent commitment; this is the through-line of her entire professional life.

Transformational Impact on Identification & Access

This educator's creativity and enthusiasm bring learning to life for gifted students. Through thoughtfully designed, rigorous instruction, she continuously challenges students to reach new heights, empowering them to become confident, independent thinkers.

Mrs. Norton's students consistently outperform all other 8th graders in the accelerated math. She finds ways to get the students actively learning, working together to solve problems, and to master the curriculum. While math is not always every student's favorite subject, Mrs. Norton finds a way to bring every student into the belief that they can succeed at the complicated math she teaches.

Lisa gives every piece of herself to her work. What sets her apart is her commitment to her students and colleagues. Lisa doesn't settle for the status quo; she pushes every project and partnership toward excellence. Having worked as a classroom teacher before becoming a gifted specialist, Lisa understands the diverse needs of her students. Her classroom is a place where students can explore, create, and invent new ideas. She has built an open, vibrant space where students feel safe to be their authentic selves. Lisa is more than a teacher; she is an advocate and a champion for her students.

Lisa takes time to understand and know the unique needs of each of her students and taps into their interests to further their learning whole also ensuring students have mastered the grade level TEKS. Lisa finds ways to bring application and real life experiences into the classroom that allow for deeper learning. The relationships and experiences her students have had this year will leave a lasting impact on her students.

The gifted team is excited to recognize Liz McCannell as an itinerant gifted support teacher in Philadelphia. As an intervention specialist, Liz leverages her background and experience in mathematics to promote innovative thinking when collaborating with schools and teams. Her approach encourages deep reflection and helps advance mindsets related to gifted needs.

Loraine Green is a compassionate and highly skilled gifted educator whose commitment to her students extends well beyond the classroom. She consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of the academic, social, and emotional needs of gifted learners by designing differentiated learning experiences that challenge students while fostering confidence and independence. Her willingness to collaborate with colleagues, advocate for appropriate services, and individualize opportunities for each learner reflects her unwavering dedication to helping students reach their fullest potential.

This educator's creativity and enthusiasm bring learning to life for gifted students. Through thoughtfully designed, rigorous instruction, she continuously challenges students to reach new heights, empowering them to become confident, independent thinkers.

Malicy loves the gifted student and has a passion to enrich their lives. She teaches with empathy and creates lessons that allow her students to grow at their own levels. She is a remarkable educator and deserves every bit of this recognition.

Since my child has enrolled at LMS I've seen unprecedented growth from them in the areas of social and emotional health and in academic curiosity. These changes had a cascading affect on the family creating a growing sense of security and understanding... The school facilitates my child's potential intellectually, artistically, and socially like no other school that they've attended in Oak Park. The flexibility in the curriculum is unmatched in that it meets your child where they're at whether that means that their growth requires the support of a soft and patient cadence that polishes developing skills or if they're expanding to material that reaches beyond K-12. This is a school where the staff and children feel like family and both the framework of the day and the physical school environment create a space for learning and rejuvenation. Before my child transitioned to LMS they were drowning in the misfit of the public school system. At LMS, they are thriving, studying multiple languages, pushing themselves into advanced math and science, exploring and enjoying piano and voice lessons, asking questions about the global community, and connecting with peers that value and understand them. LMS is a school that executes an exceptional vision; one that is desperately needed in our culture and society and especially so for children and parents that consider themselves divergent and curious. The LMS school is not just a place where my child learns, it's where they're healing, growing, and seeing for themselves that they're incredible. LMS is ahead of it's time which is not a surprise considering the deeply dedicated and talented people that run the school. Education takes on the form of cultivation as opposed to standardization which allows individual minds, bodies, hearts, and spirits to flourish at their own pace and in the directions that identify their talents, raising intrinsic motivation. Graduates of LMS, I think, will yield enriched young adults that look to our community and to humanity and ask, "what can I lift up"?

MJ is the dean of students in Speyer Legacy School's Middle School Division. She is so hardworking, kind, patient and creative: Speyer would truly not be the same without her. She has a beautiful approach to being an educator, and prides herself in being a lifelong learner. She is an incredible person and a great dean as well!

I am very passionate about learning Spanish but I struggle often. Senora Rockwell always comes to school with a positive attitude and goes above and beyond to make learning fun. She can answer almost any question us students have about grammar and I have never left her class confused.

Through her innovative teaching and unwavering commitment, this teacher creates an engaging environment where gifted learners are challenged, supported, and inspired. Her passion for excellence empowers students to think deeply, take intellectual risks, and grow beyond expectations.

I think Melanie is an excellent teacher who demonstrates exceptional skill in teaching gifted students. She creates a classroom environment that challenges students while supporting their individual needs, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and independence.

Meredith works tirelessly to make sure ALL of our gifted students are able to thrive and grow here at Phelps. She gives innovative ideas, as well as practical ideas, to help build our program to be a leader in Missouri Gifted. Meredith also works outside of school to advocate for gifted students as the Advocacy and Legislative Chair for the Gifted Association of Missouri (GAM). She is always willing to share her knowledge with anyone and everyone who asks, and uses her advocacy to help every gifted child in the state of Missouri.

Michele Knight exemplifies the highest standards of personal relationships in the GT department. Through her unwavering commitment to both professional excellence and genuine human connection, she has become an indispensable partner to our GT facilitators and a transformative presence in our district.

Michele leads with empathy and authenticity. She invests genuine time in understanding the needs, challenges, and strengths of every educator she works with. Her colleagues don't just respect her they trust her deeply, knowing that she has their best interests at heart. Because of Michele's example, the GT faculty are some of the most collaborative in the district.

She is a steadfast champion for GT facilitators, protecting both their instructional time and emotional well-being. In a demanding field, she creates a buffer between competing demands, allowing staff to focus on what matters most: serving students. Her advocacy extends beyond words; she demonstrates it through consistent action and presence.

Even more, Michele doesn't just meet expectations she exceeds them. She puts in the hours necessary to support her colleagues, whether that means staying late to troubleshoot challenges, working weekends to plan and collaborate, or simply being available when a facilitator needs guidance or encouragement.

Working with Mrs. Knight is genuinely easy. She approaches partnerships with flexibility, positivity, and a solutions-oriented mindset. Her ability to connect with diverse personalities and perspectives makes her a bridge-builder across our entire program.

Through her dedication, Michele Knight has strengthened our GT services through creating a culture of support, belonging, and shared purpose. She reminds us that educational excellence is built on relationships, reliability, and care.

Mrs. Gard works hard every day to provided new and meaningful experiences for her students. She is awesome at what she does, and she is creating a lasting impact in her community.

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

She was the best math teacher ever. she would help us with things more than math. she really was a friend a teacher and a therapist.

She guided me through the gifted program and was the very first gifted teacher I ever had. She helped me in all aspects of her class and always made sure everybody understood.

She was a good teacher that motivated me to speak highly of my self when i did not.

She was a good teacher that bought good vibes and she cheered me on when I got a good grade and she brought me up when I got a bad grade.

Because she introduced me to the gifted life. She pushed to keep trying when I wanted to give up. She showed me how much I really like really like math. I don't know about it now tho. Overall she was one of the best teachers I have ever had.

Mrs. Brunk is an outstanding educator. She teaches fourth grade humanities and ELA/Reading. Everything she does is with a purpose and the intention of her students growing and achieving academically and socially. She is innovative and always begins her planning, thinking and teaching with her students at the forefront of her mind.

By welcoming my 1st grader into her 3rd grade math class and thoughtfully differentiating even beyond that level, she has created a space for him where he feels both comfortable and challenged. Her willingness to meet him where he is, and then keep going, reflects her understanding of how important it is for him to engage with new learning. It has made a big impact in his engagement and joy at school.

I would like to recognize an outstanding gifted coordinator whose leadership, vision, and commitment have served as the backbone of our gifted department throughout her career. Dr. Pamela Washington's passion for supporting gifted students is evident in every aspect of the Webster Groves School District's gifted program. Her dedication improved the quality of our gifted services and helped shape an inclusive, forward-thinking program within our district.

As a special education resource teacher, gifted education isn't typically Mrs. Boccuzzi's domain. However she brings a rare level of insight and responsiveness to her work and collaboration. She understands that for my highly gifted 2e learner, access to accelerated academics is essential for both engagement and regulation. She consistently goes above and beyond, taking on additional coordination and planning, to his academic needs are being meaningfully met. Her genuine investment in his success has made a profound difference in his ability to connect with school.

Dr. Rhonda Moffit is a truly gifted educator whose passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to student success set them apart as an extraordinary leader in education. Their ability to inspire and connect with students on a personal level fosters a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom, empowering students to reach their fullest potential. Dr. Moffit consistently demonstrates creativity in their teaching methods, tailoring lessons to meet the diverse needs of every learner while cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel valued, even online. Beyond academics, they serve as a mentor, motivator, and role model, instilling confidence, resilience, and a lifelong thirst for knowledge. Their commitment to professional growth and collaboration with colleagues has elevated the educational experience for the entire Missouri Connections community. For these reasons and more, Dr. Moffit exemplifies what it means to be a truly gifted educator, making them an outstanding candidate for this prestigious award.

Samantha goes beyond just supporting her students in the classroom and differentiating for their needs. She takes on the added responsibility of being our campus GT Advocate. In this role, Samantha communicates important information to our teachers of gifted students that improves their ability to support students across our campus. She goes above and beyond to ensure that our gifted learners get what they need.

Sarah joined the School District of Philadelphia this year as an itinerant gifted support teacher. Her previous experience as a health and physical education teacher has given our SDP team a unique perspective on gifted identification and services, sparking new conversations about gifted traits that might not usually be considered when discussing needs. She brings a strong desire to learn and a focus on building relationships!

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Serena has been dedicated to supporting gifted education both as a classroom teacher and, now, as an itinerant gifted support teacher. Her passion for addressing the unique needs of children with advanced options and resources makes her a valuable addition to the expanding gifted team in Philadelphia!

Shelley Green truly embodies what gifted education should be at its best. As a teacher, gifted and talented educator, and STEAM instructor in a rural Colorado community, she is an invaluable asset to the students, families, and schools she serves. She is an intensely creative and deeply passionate educator who brings both heart and vision to her work. Shelley has done meaningful, lasting work to create positive change in her community, helping ensure that students are seen for their strengths, supported in their growth, and given opportunities to thrive (and when opportunities don't exist, she creates them!) . She is especially skilled at recognizing potential in students who might otherwise be overlooked and at advocating for practices that are more responsive, inclusive, and student-centered. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Through her dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to children and families, she has helped strengthen not only gifted education, but the broader fabric of her rural community!

I am honored to recognize Susan Farrar for her extraordinary dedication to our gifted and talented students. Susan single-handedly plans and runs the Gifted and Talented program for our entire district, ensuring that every student is challenged, supported, and inspired.

She creates a learning environment where curiosity is celebrated, creativity is nurtured, and students are encouraged to think deeply and take intellectual risks. Susan goes above and beyond to design meaningful, engaging experiences, including coordinating special events such as the Fourth Grade Mental Marathon Convocation, which brings students together to showcase their problem-solving, perseverance, and love of learning.

Susan truly embodies what it means to be an exceptional, gifted educator, and her work changes lives every day.

Ms. Ovrom has spent years going above and beyond advocating for her students and leading with a heart of gold.

Denise and I just wanted to send a quick note to say a massive thank you for everything you've done this year for our GATE students! The GATE showcase projects your class submitted were absolutely incredible. Thank you for being such an awesome GATE teacher and for always giving our students the space to dream big and see their passions come to life!

Terese serves as the President of the Wisconsin Association for Gifted and Talented, where her thoughtful leadership and resourcefulness have made a lasting impact. She is an inspiring leader who is continually refining her own practice while encouraging others to grow alongside her. Terese is not only a dedicated advocate for gifted learners but also a trusted mentor and invaluable resource within the gifted education community.

She has done a wonderful job and is heading to retirement.

Tina Cook is more than deserving of this honor. For over a decade Tina has worked tirelessly to build our schools gifted program. We serve a population of students that has a myriad of challenges related to poverty, and our school grade fluctuates between C,D, and B. In these types of schools, gifted students are often left unidentified due to common misconceptions surrounding poverty and standardized testing measures. Tina works with all grade levels to find and advocate for our gifted learners. She even visits preschool weekly to nurture the potential of a gifted brain with our youngest learners.

As a former gifted teacher in Florida and now an itinerant gifted support teacher in Philadelphia, Toni has shared extensive knowledge and experience in guiding best practices and ensuring compliance here in SDP. Her warm demeanor and strong expertise make her a passionate advocate for gifted students, especially those who might not meet typical psychometric thresholds. Toni is a team leader and a dedicated, gifted support teacher at heart!

Trish Hines is an inspiration. Coming to gifted education from a background in the business world, she models how we should engage with our communities, boost our students, and set high expectations for success. Trish is a dignified, calm presence in a sea of adolescent angst. Her students thrive on her example. Seeing her at our state conference is one of the professional highlights of my educational year. Thank you, Trish!

Venee works tirelessly to connect with and care for all of her students while holding high expectations and creating high level learning for each child in her care.

I am honoring Ms. Sheppard because she helps me understand when I'm stuck on math or feel like giving up.

WHASSSUUP MS SHEPPARD! I HAVE SOME QUOTES 4 U B/C UR AN AWESOME TEACHER

"May your coffee be stronger than a toddler's tantrums."

"I don't know how you do it, but thank you for not quitting mid-school year!"

"You deserve an IV drip of coffee and a vacation but here's a thank-you note!"

"Thanks for pretending we listen."

"Teaching is a walk in the park. If that park is Jurassic Park."

In all seriousness, thx 4 being my math teacher b/c ur amaze <3