Spotlighting Gifted Education at ADE’s Leading Change 2025 Conference

The Arizona Association for Gifted & Talented (AAGT) was honored to participate in the Arizona Department of Education’s Leading Change 2025 Conference, an event that brings together passionate educators and leaders from across the state to collaborate, learn, and innovate.

As part of our ongoing mission, AAGT is committed to clearing up misconceptions about what Gifted and Talented Education (GTE) truly is—and to ensuring that educators across all learning environments feel equipped to support the needs of gifted learners. Too often, gifted education is misunderstood or narrowly defined, leaving many bright, creative, and neurodiverse students underserved. Our work is focused on changing that.

At the conference, AAGT Board Member Rowe Van Meter had the opportunity to present alongside Catherine Oliver, Gifted Education Specialist at the Arizona Department of Education. Their session highlighted inclusive, accessible strategies for identifying and nurturing gifted potential in all students, regardless of background, language, or learning style.

We were thrilled to connect with so many educators who are eager to better serve gifted learners in their schools and communities. Conversations like these help us build a stronger, more responsive system of support for Arizona’s children—one where critical thinking, creativity, and diverse expressions of brilliance are recognized and celebrated.

A heartfelt thank you to the Arizona Department of Education for hosting this impactful conference and for continuing to champion professional development opportunities that prioritize all learners.

For more information on how AAGT supports gifted education in Arizona—and how you can get involved—visit www.arizonagifted.org.