Disney's Coronado SpringsResort, Lake Buena Vista, FL
Ignite your passion for educating gifted and high-potential students at the NAGC23 Annual Convention, November 9-12, at Disney's Coronado SpringsResort.You’re invited to join more than 2,000 educators, gifted coordinators, psychologists, researchers, and caregivers as they gather to share best practices for supporting high-ability children. Experience the joy of learning from hundreds of interactive sessions. Rediscover the magic of teaching from innovative and inspirational keynote sessions. Take time to reconnect, play, and spark your imagination as you join your community for conversation and collaboration.
NAGC has partnered with SocialOffset to offer meeting attendees the opportunity to contribute to local organizations in Florida that make a difference in people’s lives. Making a donation provides a way to channel the discomfort or internal conflict felt by some attendees about the location into meaningful action.
We invite you to use this campaign to offset any tax spending in Florida that doesn’t align with your values by supporting local charities that do. More information on the details of this campaign, including the charities the NAGC23 event will support, will be shared this summer.
Why Should You Attend NAGC23?
"I love attending NAGC in person because I get to learn best practices from experts while meeting up with gifted friends and colleagues from across the country. I get new ideas and strategies from NAGC and this conference really helps
me focus on what will work for my students. The creative energy at NAGC is contagious and I find myself full of new ideas and fresh perspectives after every event."
Jessica LaFollette, Ph.D., Educator, Kansas
The energy, the camaraderie, the united purpose of serving gifted children was thrilling.
2022 Convention Attendee
I love attending NAGC to learn new strategies to take back to the classroom and to share with colleagues. I network with gifted specialists and researchers from across the country to discuss gifted issues and solutions that work
for them. Attending this conference renews my passion in gifted education and energizes me to advocate and work harder for gifted students and youth.
Shirley J. Farrell, Ph.D.
Pricing
Lock in early bird pricing for the best deal on four days of professional learning with your gifted education community by June 30! Group rates available by contacting nagc@nagc.org. Not yet an NAGC member? Lock in discounted member pricing
by joining NAGC at https://nagc.org/join_nagcAll registrants are required to abide by the NAGC Code of Conduct.
Early Bird (Through June 30)
MEMBER Price
$499.00
NONMEMBER Price
$649.00
Access to hundreds of sessions, keynotes, and special events
Please note, registration for Disney Imagination Campus and Preconvention workshops requires an additional fee.
Disney Imagination Campus provides a reimagined line of educational experiences for student groups that includes a collection of interactive workshops, performances and special events centered around subjects that
include science & technology, arts & humanities, leadership & innovation and performing arts. Join the Disney Imagination Campus team for this innovative experience. $150 per person, includes park
entrance. (Separate registration required).
Program start times are listed below. All participants must plan to arrive at the participant meeting point 45 minutes early for transportation to the parks. Course offerings include:
8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.: Theme Park Design: Get an inside look at Disney’s unique design approach. In this course, participants will learn what makes a theme park tick. Learn the concepts, philosophy
and tools necessary to design a working theme park. From visual design elements to practical considerations like Guest flow and maintenance, students will come away with a holistic understanding of how form and function
come together to make the seemingly impossible… possible.
8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.: Immersive Storytelling: At Disney, everyone is a storyteller. In this revealing course, students will get an inside look at how Disney Imagineers
create immersive environments that support the living stories of our theme parks. Through this journey they’ll discover how a wide range of disciplines––from live performances and music to sculptures and culinary arts––all
come together to bring stories to life inside the Disney Theme Parks.
9:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.: Leadership the Disney Way: In this course participants explore the importance of Disney’s 5 Keys of Excellence that guide Disney Cast Members in everything
they do. Participants will be challenged through a variety of experiences focusing on effective communication and critical thinking. Through hands-on learning and problem-solving scenarios, participants will experience
the real-world application of these principles as they interact with Disney leaders and discover their own personal leadership style.
10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.: Broadway Magic: Get an inside look at the fundamentals of musical theater with industry professionals who will lead students through fast-paced rehearsals of a scene from one
of Disney’s world-famous shows. The experience culminates in a show-stopping final performance. Throughout this workshop, participants will also gain valuable insights into audition techniques, the importance
of every role, and overcoming unexpected obstacles during performances.
12:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m.: Theme Park Design: Get an inside look at Disney’s unique design approach. In this course, participants will learn what makes a theme park tick. Learn the concepts, philosophy
and tools necessary to design a working theme park. From visual design elements to practical considerations like Guest flow and maintenance, students will come away with a holistic understanding of how form and function
come together to make the seemingly impossible… possible.
1:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m.: Physics of Disney Parks:Disney Imagineers are living proof that creativity and science are integral partners. In this interactive course, students’ curiosity
is sparked by stepping into the shoes of Disney Imagineers as they explore how physics is applied to every element of the theme park experience. Here, students work in teams to investigate the role that properties
such as Newton’s Laws of Motion, potential & kinetic energy, gravity, and more, play in the design and operation of popular theme park attractions.
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.: Teamwork the Disney Way: At Disney, our success and our legacy have always hinged on highly effective teams who are motivated toward a common goal. This spirit
of shared vision and teamwork can be observed throughout The Walt Disney Company, and in every aspect of our Disney theme parks. In this experience participants learn the Disney philosophy
and strategies behind high performing teams. They’ll experience first-hand how collaboration and openness enable teams to overcome obstacles and achieve the ultimate goal...making magic for our Guests every day.
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.: Soundtrack Sessions: Vocal: Throughout the workshop, participants will not only hone fundamental skills like breath control and diction, but they’ll also learn how phrasing and
dynamics can add emotion to any piece of music. Beyond recording, Disney music professionals will share the high expectations of being a professional vocalist and how to succeed in the field. Endorsed by the
National Association for Music Education, this workshop is sure to hit all the right notes for your ensemble.
The role of the gifted coordinator is much like being on an amusement park ride. You never know what is coming around the corner! Join the fun and hop on board; it’s all about the ride! This interactive session is designed
to support coordinators at all levels of experience with a primary component of the role of gifted coordinators: developing and supporting inclusive and sustainable gifted programs and services. Participants will have opportunities
to collaborate while exploring various programming models.
Counseling Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children and Youth: Strategies for Clinical and School Settings
Edward R. Amend, Psy.D., Stephen Chou, Psy.D., Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, and Justin Dove, EdS, NCSP, LEP
This interactive training session will provide strategies for counseling gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) children and youth in clinical and school settings. Experts will review characteristics of giftedness and 2e, common
social-emotional issues, and effective counseling interventions through case studies with a multicultural and equity-based lens. Participants will connect with like-minded professionals, leaving with practical tools to
support these unique individuals. This session is presented in collaboration with SENG and approved for 3 Continuing Education credits through APA.
The Essential What and Why of Curriculum for Gifted and Talented Students
Back by popular demand, this encore preconference session from NAGC 2022 highlights curriculum and instructional strategies and resources that work! Selecting curriculum is one of the most important decisions facing a gifted
coordinator, teacher, or homeschool parent. This session showcases evidence-supported curricula that address the learning needs of gifted and talented students. Together we will explore what key features effective models
share, and why the key features are essential. Five popular curriculum models will frame important questions around how to select curriculum and the aims of curriculum differentiation. Together they demonstrate the following
key features: depth, cultural and contextual relevance, complexity, discourse, and conceptual understanding. Participants will experience a variety of approaches to incorporate into their classrooms and walk away with an
extensive list of curricula resources.
Navigating the Playground of Possibilities: Perspectives & Strategies for Utilizing AI With Gifted Learners
Brian Housand, Ph.D., Andi McNair, Shirley Farrell, Ph.D., Michelle Buchanan, Ph.D., and Keri Guilbault, Ed.D.
Bring your device and an open mind as this interactive pre-conference explores ways that AI can be utilized to enhance the educational experience of gifted learners. Participants will examine potential benefits and challenges
of incorporating AI technologies into their teaching practices, and will gain practical strategies for using a variety of AI tools to promote critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning among their gifted learners.
Through case studies and ready-to-use activities, we will explore the latest AI tools and techniques that can be used to support personalized learning and differentiate instruction for gifted learners.
Uncover to Discover: Reimagining Gifted Programming and Leveraging Perspectives in Gifted Identification
Dante Dixson, Ph.D., Yvette Robinson, Sheyanne Smith, and April Wells
Learn how to implement a responsive, equitable culturally responsive identification protocol that fosters engagement and highlights the brilliance of beautiful thinkers from diverse populations. Attendees will participate in
an overview of design implementation and strategies that are aimed at achieving equity while honoring a restorative approach to gifted continuum. Learn how research and practice are coalesced to reimagine justice and uncover
and discover approaches that can enhance educational access for students who are racially minoritized or from marginalized communities. Engage in this interactive pursuit with leaders who leverage voices and perspectives
to reimagine justice in gifted identification.
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Committee Meetings
Time dedicated for NAGC Committees to meet on-site during NAGC23. Committee members should contact their Chair and NAGC Staff Partner for more details.
1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.: State Affiliate Meeting (RSVP Required)
An opportunity for all NAGC State Affiliate leaders to join together and examine their current practices, learn from their peers, and share important updates about their work. NAGC State Affiliates in good standing should contact
David Cutler for more details and to RSVP.
Educators need to focus not only what we know, but what we do with what we know. Change is a constant in our world, and with new opportunities for learning and evolving technology (such as AI and emerging technologies), it
is imperative that we focus not only on the change that happens to us, but more importantly, the change we create. In this talk, George will discuss the idea and characteristics of “The Innovator’s Mindset” (as discussed
in the book of the same title) and share persuasive examples on why this is so crucial for all educators to create incredible learning opportunities for not only their students, but themselves. George’s presentations are
known to be emotional, and humorous, all while pushing your thinking, and will connect to your heart first in a way that will last with you long after this keynote.
5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.: NAGC23 Exhibit Hall Opening & Celebration
Join our outstanding exhibitors and your NAGC community as we kick off the 2023 convention!
7:15 p.m.-9:00 p.m.: Network Evening Events
Watch for information from your networks for these exciting evening events!
3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m.: Get to Know Your Networks and SIGs
Interested in joining an NAGC network or SIG? Want to catch up on network and SIG activity and how you can help? Meet and greet network and SIG leaders and volunteers at this come-and-go roundtable session..
5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m.: Celebration of Excellence
Celebrate the outstanding work of your peers as we recognize the 2023 NAGC Award winners.
The Learner Inside: Creating Emotional Safety in Learning
Donovan Taylor Hall
How students talk to themselves about themselves influences how they show up in the world and what they learn. When learning feels unsafe, kids become afraid to take risks, feel less motivated and more anxious, and limit their
potential. As teachers, how can we create emotional safety in learning, both personal and academic, for kids? In this presentation, educators will experience how learner's self-identities affect what students believe about
themselves and their capabilities. By helping students feel connected, valued, and oriented toward growth, we can help kids reframe the point of education, while also building their self determination as learners.
Keynote Speakers
The Innovator's Mindset
Thursday, November 9, 3:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. (Book signing to follow)
George Couros
George Couros is a worldwide leader in the area of innovative teaching, learning, and leading, and has a focus on innovation as a human endeavor. Most importantly, he is a proud father and husband. His belief that meaningful change happens
when you first connect to people’s hearts, is modeled in his writing and speaking. In his 20-plus years in the field of education, he has worked at all levels of school, from K-12 as a teacher, technology facilitator, and school and
district administrator, and is currently an Adjunct Instructor with the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. George is also the author of the books, The Innovator’s Mindset: Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity,
Innovate Inside the Box, and his latest release, Because of a Teacher and Because of a Teacher 2. Learn more and follow George at georgecouros.ca
Twitter and Instagram: @gcouros
Facebook: facebook.com/georgecourosauthor
YouTube: @georgecourosim
The Learner Inside: Creating Emotional Safety in Learning
Sunday, November 12, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Donovan Taylor Hall
Donovan Taylor Hall is a youth advocate, speaker, content creator, and educator that teaches kids how to build positive self-identity. His work aims to help kids build self-determination, while also learning skills to take care of themselves
mentally and emotionally. He also works with the adults who support kids in creating safe spaces for learning and growth at home and in school. Donovan teaches his self-skills curriculum through one on one coaching, speeches and workshops
for students, and online content. Donovan is currently developing a tv show and online series for middle and high school kids. He has been featured on the Today Show, NowThis, DailyMailTV, and several prominent podcasts to talk about
the importance of positive youth development. Learn more and follow Donovan at https://www.donovantaylorhall.com or linktr.ee/donofriend
NAGC has partnered with SocialOffset to offer meeting attendees the optional opportunity to contribute to local organizations in Florida that make a difference in people’s
lives. Making a voluntary donation provides a way to channel the discomfort or internal conflict felt by some attendees about the Convention’s location into meaningful action.
NAGC has worked with SocialOffset to select vetted charities that support social justice, LGBTQ+ equality, and the freedom to read in Central Florida.
We invite you to use this optional campaign to offset any tax spending in Florida that doesn’t align with your values by supporting local charities that do. Please note that funds from your Convention registration will not be donated to this campaign.
NAGC will provide several useful toolkits for prospective attendees, speakers, registered attendees, and exhibitors. Check back soon for these and other great resources before you head to NAGC23!
Download and share our customizable NAGC23 Justification Toolkit with your administrator, department head, or other decision-makers.
Convention Center Hotel
The deadline to book a discounted hotel room for NAGC23 has passed!
If you are planning on attending NAGC23 and have not secured a hotel reservation, search for hotel availabilityvia our trusted partner aRes Travel.
Book online or call 1-800-559-3186 for assistance | International attendees can call 1-619-546-5773
aRes Travel is a third-party travel planner. Rates, deposits, and cancellation policies may vary and are the responsibility of the guest. Questions on hotel policies or payments made on aRes website should be directed to the aRes Reservation Center or to the hotel directly.
