Gifted and Talented Coordinator Milwaukee Public Schools Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
It is imperative to use culturally sensitive identification tools to increase equity for diverse students. The Teacher Observations of Potential in Students (TOPS) Tool is an effective tool used to identify giftedness. This session provides an overview of TOPS and practical strategies for implementation to identify, nurture, and develop student talents effectively.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the TOPS Tool, including its purpose, structure, and how it serves as a culturally responsive method for identifying gifted students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Participants will examine data from an urban district to understand the effectiveness of TOPS and explore the nine domains used for gifted identification providing an inclusive approach to talent recognition.
Participants will leave with practical strategies and tools to support and nurture students identified through TOPS. They will learn how to implement talent development practices in their schools and classrooms.
