Concurrent 45 min

Blending Rigor and Opportunities for Gifted Learners

Saturday, November 15, 2025

9:15 AM - 10:00 AM ET

Location: Convention Center, 329

Grade Level: 9-12

Susan J. Renner (she/her/hers)

Gifted Coordinator, AP and Dual Enrollment Instructor
University High School Tolleson AZ
Avondale, Arizona, United States
Tyler Hill (he/him/his)

Teacher
University High School Tolleson AZ
Glendale, Arizona, United States

Short Description: Discover how University High School in Tolleson, Arizona, thrives as a school within a school, providing gifted students with a challenging and supportive environment. This session explores our approach to academic rigor, enrichment opportunities, and social-emotional support while navigating the dynamics of a larger comprehensive high school. Gain insights into fostering gifted education in a unique setting.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will explore strategies for identifying gifted students by casting a wider net to better understand and support their needs.
Attendees will examine how a small-school model and teacher collaboration create an environment where gifted students thrive.
Attendees will learn about various programs, enrichment opportunities and academic supports that can be easily replicated in other school settings to help gifted students reach their full potential.