TUESDAY KEYNOTE: Limitless Learning: Learn, Lead and Live without Barriers

Dr. Jo Boaler

Mathematics teaching and learning - in particular, how different teaching approaches impact students' learning, how to teach mathematics for a “growth mindset,” and how equity is promoted in mathematics classrooms. The role of groupwork and mathematical discussions in the development of understanding. The ways teachers may be supported in moving towards equitable and effective teaching environments. The importance of data science and ways to integrate data science into all subjects in school.

ADDITIONAL SESSION: Teaching & Learning Multidimensional Mathematics

WEDNESDAY AM: Different, Not More! Strategies to Support Gifted Learners

Dr. Estee Aiken

Objectives:

• Attendees will examine the common characteristics and needs of gifted students.
• Attendees will explore strategies to meet the needs of gifted students in regular education settings.
• Attendees will consider ways to apply these strategies in their own teaching.

What do you do with "fast finishers"? Often (but not always!), the first students done may be the most advanced. This session will guide attendees to look to the start of the lesson, rather than the end, to create differentiated lessons that allow students at different levels to receive appropriate challenges. We'll work to move from "What more can students do?" to "How can I differentiate from the start?" We'll also consider why some of the most advanced students are never the first students done, and how we can better meet these students' needs, too.

ADDITIONAL SESSION: Teaching Practices that Work in Any Classroom: High  Leverage Practices for Teaching and Learning

Coordinators Corner

Tight budget? As some schools cut back on "non-essentials," GT program structures may require adjustment, and service delivery might happen in the General Ed setting.  Consider investing in the book Teaching Gifted Kids in Today's Classroom for strategies and training material all teachers can use. 

OPI is here to help! We are updating our GT Coordinator list.  If you are a new coordinator or GT program lead in your building or district (within the past 5 years), please email Jenny Jarvis, GT Program Support Specialist with your contact information.  We can provide GT program support and training for you, teachers at your school, your administration, and your school board.

Earn a graduate certificate in Gifted Education from the University of Montana-Missoula. 

• 4 online courses for 12 credits.
• Stand-alone or part of a masters/doctorate
• Two fall offerings/two spring offerings
• Take classes in any order
• EDU 561: Intro to Gifted Education (fall)
• EDU 562: Social-Emotional/Special Populations (spring)
• EDU 563: Curriculum and Methods for the Gifted (fall)
• EDU 564: Program Planning for the Gifted (spring)

Discovery Education is providing two full days of FREE professional learning to all teachers, administrators, and other educators working in Montana Public Schools.
The events will be held in Miles City on August 6 at Miles Community College and in Helena on August 8 at the University of Montana, Helena campus.
Plan for a full day of learning about Discovery Education Experience, DreamBox Learning, Science within Discovery Education Experience, and Mystery Science.
-Time: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm MST
-Discovery Education will provide lunch and snacks throughout the day!
-OPI renewal credits will be offered.
For more information contact:
Allison Nys anys@discoveryed.com
Natalee Hawks nhawks@discoveryed.com

Register Now >> bit.ly/MTDoD2024

Did you know that the OPI has a wealth of information about and tools for Gifted Education on its website? You can learn about legislation, programming, funding, and much more.  There is even a link to a full Gifted Education Training Site filled with helpful resources to make your program for gifted and advanced learners the best it can be!  Find the GT section on the OPI website by going to the Educators tab, then Teaching and Learning, then Gifted, Talented, & AP.