"Say This, Not That" examines the way teachers' verbiage impacts engagement, motivation, learning, and social-emotional well being.  As research continues to surface regarding the unique nature of the gifted population and mental health, we'll use actual statements from both parents and practitioners to explore what we say and how we say it. Participants will be given the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversations and personal reflection regarding the words we use with our gifted students and how the power of words can impact classroom performance. "The Delusion of Expectations" focuses on parental and educator expectations (the "gifted" label, and how they impact overall wellness). As teachers working with gifted children, some of our greatest challenges are around working with parents and their expectations of their kids, of us, of administration, and of the school community. In this presentation, we will explore what these expectations are, how they impact our students, families, and us as their teachers, as well as some strategies we might use to create a healthier environment for everyone. Kristen Pepera of Colors+ will follow with a discussion on LGBTQ+ gifted students and how teachers can affirm and support their overall wellness especially their mental health.

Dr. Rakow will finalize the day with her "Balanced Life Diagram", which reminds all of us how multi-faceted we are, in that we are not "just" the label of our academic life, athletic life, social prowess, gender identity, etc., but the sum of how we interact with nature, society, friends, parents, etc.

Audience: Teachers of the Gifted

Contact Hours: 5

Facilitator: Dr. Susan Rakow, Dr. Lisa Huelskamp, and Kristen Pepera, LPCC-S, M.Ed.

Event Fee:  Free - Gifted Consortium District Members |  $50 - Non-Members

Member Districts:  Amherst, Avon Lake, Clearview, Columbia, Firelands, North Ridgeville, Oberlin, Perkins, Sheffield-Sheffield Lake, Wellington

Assistance: Tracy Butchko, [email protected], 440-324-5777 x1100