The school year is flying by, and with the summer break just around the corner, days feel more like minutes. I have often commented about the common misconception that educators and students have the summer off, but in reality, there is summer work to be done, whether assigned or voluntary. I would like to offer a few suggestions for both the student and the educator seeking educational opportunities during time away from the classroom.
For the Student: The Summer Assignment
Over the years the faculty at our school have assigned a myriad of “summer work” assignments. Given that many high-ability students already have a jam-packed summer, my colleagues and I decided to incorporate activities the students may already be participating in as part of their work. In this way, students can recognize learning outside of the classroom, a skill that is all too often lost during the rigor of daily assignments.
The following ten suggestions come from a much larger summer work packet distributed to incoming seventh and eighth-grade students, although the ideas can be used for both younger and older students. Students have the opportunity to receive credit for:
In addition to these ideas, keep in mind that NAGC has a Gifted and Talented Resources Directory, complete with suggestions and advice on how to choose the perfect summer opportunity. Check it out today!
For The Educator: Summer Professional Development
The NAGC 63rd Annual Convention is coming to Walt Disney World® Resort in November, but in the meantime there are a host of possibilities for professional development over the summer. Attending a conference during this time is quite different than during the year. The opportunity to interact with other educators in a relaxed environment far removed from the usual daily schedule is something that everyone in the profession should experience. There is nothing greater than learning from educators willing to share their stories, expertise, and ideas.
Perhaps you have already experienced the excitement of a summer conference. Maybe you have been contemplating attending one near you but something always came up. Quite possibly, you may never have even thought about going. If that is the case, I urge you to explore some options. There is sure to be one close to you!
Utah Gifted and Talented Summer Conference
June 7 – 9, Park City, Utah
Hormel Foundation Gifted and Talented Education Symposium
June 13 - 16, Austin, Minnesota
Personalizing Learning through Differentiation & Technology
June 25 – 27, Spokane, Washington
William & Mary Professional Summer Institute
June 27 - 28, Williamsburg, Virginia
University of Connecticut's Confratute
July 10 - 15, Storrs, Connecticut
SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted) Conference
July 21 – 24, Williamsburg, Virginia
Belin-Blank Center Advanced Leadership Institute
July 24-26, University of Iowa
Boise State’s Edufest
July 25 – 29, Boise, Idaho
And lastly, don’t forget about NAGC’s E–Learning Webinars—Professional development at your fingertips, 24-7!