TAG Conference: A Whirlwind of Learning, Advocacy, & Gene Simmons?!

All I can say is “Wow!”  I just returned from the TAG conference, and let me tell you, it was a whirlwind of learning, laughter, and "aha" moments. Picture this: Two days packed with brilliant minds, engaging sessions, and enough coffee to fuel a rocket launch (thank goodness for that Starbucks in the lobby!).

The conference was a goldmine of knowledge on hot topics like productive struggle, simple differentiation that benefits all, and the latest in gifted education policy. 

One of the highlights? The advocacy session. We wrote postcards to legislators (yes, actual snail mail!) to champion our gifted kids. It felt so powerful knowing how our group would be flooding state legislators with our collaborative voice insisting on more focus on the needs of our gifted students. 

As if the conference wasn't exciting enough, attendees got an unexpected brush with rock royalty! Gene Simmons, the legendary bassist of KISS, was spotted walking through our conference to another event he was attending. Simmons, a former biology teacher himself, seemed intrigued by our gifted education conference. While he didn't join our sessions, his presence added an extra layer of excitement to the already energetic atmosphere. It was a reminder that the passion for education can be found in the most unexpected places – even in the world of rock and roll!

Now, you might be thinking, "Why should I bother with conferences?" Well, let me explain. First off, it's like a massive group therapy session for gifted teachers. You'll find your tribe - people who get your quirky jokes about twice-exceptional students and don't look at you weird when you geek out over curriculum design.

But more than that, you'll walk away with a toolbox full of fresh ideas to re-energize your classroom. And let's be real, who can stand a little refresh and new tricks up their sleeve?

Here's the best part - you are reminded that you can be a superhero in your district. Armed with new strategies & knowledge, you can swoop in and share ways to implement gifted differentiation ideas to your gen ed colleagues. You may even want to host a mini-workshop or lunch & learn.

So, gifted teachers, mark your calendars for the next conference. Trust me, your future self will thank you. 

If you attended the TAG conference in October, I'd love to hear from you! What is your greatest takeaway from the conference? What do you plan to implement or share immediately?