Did you know that there are state and national associations that exist to support gifted and advanced learners and their families and educators? Not only do these organizations provide information and resources, but they also provide training opportunities and conferences.
The Texas Association for the Gifted/Talented (TAGT), was chartered in 1978, following the passage of the first legislation in the state concerning the education of gifted and talented students in 1977. The mission of the association is to “connect and empower educators and parents to meet the unique needs of gifted and talented individuals through awareness, advocacy and action.” They invite the community to join with TAGT to learn, connect, and advocate.
Learn – TAGT offers learning experiences for parents, students, and educators through a variety of resources and events. There are a few free parent webinars offered throughout the year to support parents in raising gifted children. TEMPO+, a membership benefit, offers an array of digital articles, presentations, and other resources. The most prominent event, the annual GiftEd conference, occurs each year the week after Thanksgiving and includes sessions for the thousands of educators and parents who attend. Additional educator conferences include Leadership in the spring and Gifted+Equity in early summer. TAGT supports new district level coordinators with the early fall New Coordinator Boot Camp and through the Emerging Leaders Program.
Connect – Parents can connect with the association and each other in a variety of ways. In addition to the conference events, there is an online membership community, TAGT Connect, as well as a variety of opportunities to volunteer for organizational committees and event support. TAGT also provides an enrichment program listing, designed to help parents connect with programs and vendors that might be of interest to their student.
Advocate – There are many ways TAGT works to advocate for gifted learners. The association is involved in legislative activity to support the annual GT Awareness week, maintain the mandate to identify and serve gifted and talented learners, and advocate for funding to support identification and services. In addition, TAGT increases awareness and advocacy through association awards, honoring those outstanding individuals and groups who have demonstrated a commitment to the gifted community in Texas through their service and contribution. Awards are given for Educator, Administrator, Advocate, and Parent Group at the annual conference. TAGT also advocates for students through annual student scholarship opportunities designed to support students as they pursue their passions.
TAGT membership provides access to Pulse, Tempo+, TAGT Connect, members-only resources, and event discounts. A full membership is $80/year. There is also an eSubscriber option that provides access to all digital content include Pulse, Tempo+, TAGT Connect and more. Find more information about TAGT memberships.
Michelle Swain is the Director of Gifted and Advanced Academics at Round Rock ISD.