4.2.3 How to Create a More Well-Rounded Gifted and Talented Program with Booster Program Components

This session will discuss the different booster components that have been implemented as part of a gifted and talented (GT) program to meet the intellectual and emotional needs of GT students as well as increase parent engagement. Activities focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) and engagement events will be shared with implementation guidelines as well as pitfalls to avoid. Deployment of these components such as a welcome event, family game nights, showcases, code jams, and parent forums can create a more robust and well-rounded GT program.

Author(s):

Claudette Van Ravenstein
cvanravenstein@harmonytx.org
Harmony Public Schools
United States

District Coordinator for all Houston North schools. Serving over 700 students from 8 campuses in our GATE program. I started teaching full-time in 2010, first as the Technology Teacher for K-3 at Harmony School of Excellence. In 2011, I embarked on my GT journey when I started providing pull-out services for our K-5 students. Moved into my current role in 2014.

I have a degree in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Austin. I am a member of TAGT, NAGC and TCEA. Currently pursuing a M.Ed degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Educational Technology.