This comprehensive professional learning series provides educators with a deep dive into the unique world of gifted learners. Divided into three stand alone 15-hour courses, this series moves from understanding the core identity of the gifted student to exploring creative environments and mastering advanced pedagogical practices.
** This is the second in the three part series. Class A is not a pre-requisite.
Class B: Creative Environments and Program Models (15 Credit Hours)
Focus: Cognition, Creativity, and Service Delivery How do we build environments where giftedness can flourish? This course explores the intersection of learning mindset and high-level cognitive development. Participants will master tools to foster innovation, including SCAMPER and FFOE (Fluency, Flexibility, Originality, and Elaboration), and examine the visionary work of leaders in creativity.
Beyond individual creativity, this course prepares educators to navigate institutional structures by analyzing various service delivery models and the role each plays in gifted classrooms.
Dates for Class B: November 16 - December 14.
Virtual meeting on Nov. 16
Location: Virtual and asynchronous
Cost: $80 per class.
Facilitator: Michele Thelen
Michele Thelen is the current Executive Secretary for the Arizona Association for Gifted & Talented (AAGT). She was recently the Coordinator of Gifted & Talented Education in the Marana Unified School District. She has been an elementary teacher, gifted cluster teacher, gifted specialist, mother of two gifted adults and grandmother of four gifted youngsters. Michele has also served as the co-facilitator of the Southern Arizona Gifted Network which supports gifted students and their families as well as teachers of the gifted through professional growth opportunities for teachers and families. Michele has presented at the National Association for Gifted Children National Conference, SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted) National Conference and the AAGT Annual Conference. She loves spending her free time enjoying nature with her family.
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