The Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT) Podcast

Join host Michael Flusche as he chats with Ilana Walder and Alex Lochoff, from National Math Stars, a groundbreaking program that identifies mathematically extraordinary students as young as second grade and provides them with ten years of personalized support, mentorship, and access to advanced STEM opportunities—all at no cost to families or schools. Ilana and Alex share their personal journeys and the program’s mission to bring equity to gifted education, bridging gaps for underrepresented communities and fostering a culture where math is celebrated. Packed with inspiring success stories and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and advocates looking to unlock the brilliance of young learners.Suggested Resources:www.nationalmathstars.orgadmissions@nationalmathstars.orgpartnerships@nationalmathstars.orgwww.linkedin.com/company/national-math-stars

In this episode, host Michael Flusche sits down with e.E. Charlton-Trujillo, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and youth literacy activist. From growing up in rural Texas to earning national acclaim, e.E. shares their inspiring journey and passion for amplifying student voices. With powerful stories and actionable insights, this conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing the potential in every student. Tune in to this special episode featuring one of the MasterMind speakers from giftED24! Suggested Resources:www.eecharlton-trujillo.comwww.instagram.com/pinatadirector

In this episode of the TAGT Podcast, host Michael Flusche sits down with Dina Brulles, Ph.D., coordinator of the gifted master's program at Arizona State University, to explore her work on achieving equity in gifted education. Dr. Brulles shares insights on identifying high-potential students through innovative nonverbal testing methods, the transformative power of cluster grouping, and how tailored programming can address the needs of underserved populations. With a passion for empowering students and supporting educators, Dr. Brulles offers actionable strategies to help teachers engage with diverse learners and unlock their potential.Suggested Resourceswww.giftededucationconsultants.comDina.Brulles@asu.eduASU Graduate Program

Season 7 Premiere! We’re back and brighter than ever! Kicking off Season 7 with a sparkle, we’re sitting down with the one and only Stephanie Higgs—award-winning gifted educator, differentiation coach, and your new favorite hype girl for all things gifted education. Known as @littlemissgifted, Stephanie brings her high-energy, fast-talking, idea-packed brilliance to this episode, sharing fun and practical ways to support gifted learners. Get ready for easy-to-implement strategies, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of inspiration. Let’s make this season shine!Suggested ResourcesLittle Miss Gifted Instagramwww.stephaniehiggs.netlittlemissgiftedteacher@gmail.com

Join us on this episode of the Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT) Podcast as we dive into the power of advocacy in gifted education. Host Michael Flusche sits down with TAGT Policy Consultant Molly Quirk and TAGT Executive Director Paulina van Eeden Hill to discuss the upcoming legislative session and how educators, parents, and community members can get involved in shaping policy for gifted education in Texas.Suggested ResourcesTAGT’s Advocacy pageShare your gifted education storyFind your legislatorTexas legislature onlineWhat is gifted?TEA’s websiteSign up for TAGT’s legislative updates newsletterTAGT's G/T Awareness Week pageTeach the voteTAGT Website

In this episode of the TAGT Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Brian Housand and Andi McNair—two powerhouse voices in the world of gifted education. From exploring the shift from peer tutoring to thought partnerships to emphasizing authentic, meaningful learning, Brian and Andi share actionable insights to engage learners and educators alike. They discuss the critical role of collaboration, the importance of preparing students for life beyond the classroom, and how their innovative LEAF model can revolutionize professional learning. Packed with inspiration and practical strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about gifted education!Learn More About Brian Housandwww.brianhousand.comwww.gifted360.comLearn More About Andi McNairwww.andimcnair.comA Meaningful Mess BookA Meaningful Mess Podcastwww.twitter.com/mcnairan3www.facebook.com/ameaningfulmessSuggested ResourcesUsing the Schoolwide Enrichment Model with TechnologyFighting Fake News: Teaching Critical Thinking and Media Literacy in a Digital AgeThis episode of the TAGT Podcast was sponsored by our friends at Renzulli Learning and Numinds Enrichment.www.renzullilearning.com | www.numindsenrichment.com

Join us on the Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented Podcast as we chat with Elizabeth White, the 2023 TAGT Educator for the Gifted and a dynamic educator from Hawkins ISD. In this episode, Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from art major to award-winning engineering teacher, blending creativity, technology, and STEM in innovative ways. Hear how she uses hands-on projects like solar-powered robotic bees and blackout poems to engage students, including twice-exceptional learners, while fostering a love for learning through choice and creativity. Plus, discover resources like TAME’s free curriculum and tips for navigating the unique challenges of small districts. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to GT, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!Suggested ResourcesElizabeth White's WebsiteWicked Creatures of Cape Cod and the IslandsTexas Alliance for Minorities in Engineeringhawkinsisd.orgThis episode of the TAGT Podcast was sponsored by our friends at Renzulli Learning and Numinds Enrichment.www.renzullilearning.com | www.numindsenrichment.com

Join us on the Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented Podcast as we sit down with Kelsey Kartcher, the 2023 Advocate for the Gifted Award winner. With nearly 20 years in gifted education, Kelsey shares her inspiring journey, from teaching gifted clusters to launching Growing Up Gifted, a platform empowering parents and educators. In this episode, she dives into the importance of equitable identification, the power of open-ended learning, and tools like jot-down forms that help uncover gifted potential. Tune in for actionable strategies, reflections on advocacy, and insights into creating meaningful opportunities for gifted learners!Suggested Resources@growingupgifted@GrowingGiftedCo@RISDGTJot It Down SlidesThis episode of the TAGT Podcast was sponsored by our friends at Renzulli Learning and Numinds Enrichment.www.renzullilearning.com | www.numindsenrichment.com

Join us as we sit down with Cheryl Beard, the 2023 TAGT Administrator of the Gifted Award recipient, who has dedicated 32 years to education in Garland ISD as a teacher, campus leader, and district administrator. In her role as G/T Education Administrator, Cheryl oversees K-12 gifted programs, championing equitable representation and ensuring students receive high-quality academic and fine arts services. Inspired by her personal journey as a mom to gifted children, Cheryl shares insights from her groundbreaking doctoral research on the experiences of Black male students in gifted programs. As a TAGT board member, Cheryl brings her passion for collaboration, mentorship, and advocacy to the forefront. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of listening, learning, and leading in gifted education!Suggested Resourceswww.x.com/CBeardGTThis episode of the TAGT Podcast was sponsored by our friends at Renzulli Learning and Numinds Enrichment.www.renzullilearning.com | www.numindsenrichment.com