GAM 2026 Conference (Gifted Association of Missouri): Full Schedule

Welcome to the Gifted Association of Missouri’s 2026 Annual Conference!
Join us October 16–17, 2026, at Lindbergh High School in St. Louis, Missouri, for this year’s conference, Adventures in Gifted Education. Designed with both gifted specialists and general education teachers in mind, this year’s conference invites you to explore practical, engaging ways to support advanced learners in every classroom.

Our adventure begins with opening keynote speaker Karen Rambo-Hernandez, who will explore the wide variability of student needs and challenge the idea that “one size fits all” in today’s classrooms. Grounded in research and real-world application, her message will resonate with anyone working to meet students where they are—especially those ready for more challenge.

We’ll close our journey with Bryan Pearlman, a nationally recognized educator and speaker known for his dynamic, inspiring approach to teaching and learning. Bryan will leave you energized with creative ideas and a renewed sense of purpose as you continue your work with students.

Throughout the conference, you’ll have opportunities to engage in sessions that offer immediately applicable strategies, fresh perspectives, and meaningful collaboration—no matter your role or experience with gifted education.

Don’t miss your chance to connect, learn, and be inspired—register early and take advantage of the discounted early bird rate of $300, available through August 3rd. After that, registration increases to $375 starting August 4th.
We can’t wait to see you in St. Louis for this exciting adventure!

Parking
Free parking is available at Lindbergh High School in the GREEN lot.

Hotel Information
Comfort Suites St. Louis - Sunset Hills - Choice Hotels or La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St Louis Route 66
Click on the Hotel & Meal tab for morning information!

Meals
A coffee/pastry bar will be provided both Friday and Saturday. The awards luncheon on Friday will take place at Royale Orleans (2801 Telegraph Rd. 63125). A boxed lunch will be provide for attendees stay on Saturday for the GAM general meeting to occur at 1:30 pm.

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9:45am CDT

Beyond the Newsletter: Reimagining High School Gifted Resource Programs to Meet Student and School Needs

Saturday October 17, 2026 9:45am - 10:35am CDT

LHS Room 15

The High School Gifted Resource Model can be challenging to design and implement, given the constraints of both school and student schedules. This session will explore the development of a resource model that goes beyond a gifted newsletter by responding to student needs, fostering community, and serving as a resource for students and staff.

Speakers

Megan Burian

Gifted Resource Teacher, Rockwood School District

I've been teaching middle and high school students for sixteen years in English, social studies, and gifted education. I currently work in the Rockwood School District in a gifted middle school classroom and as a high school gifted resource teacher.

Saturday October 17, 2026 9:45am - 10:35am CDT
LHS Room 15

Breakout, Educators, Administrators

10:45am CDT

From MO-GLOs to Moon-GLOs: Designing Rigorous Units for Gifted Learners

Saturday October 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT

LHS Room 15

Join me to transition the Missouri Gifted Learner Outcomes (MO-GLOs) into rigorous "Moon-GLOs!" This session is centered on designing high-challenge, interdisciplinary curriculum units around NASA's Artemis missions and the establishment of a sustainable Moon Base, using the Artemis Era as an unparalleled, real-world challenge for gifted learners. We will discuss using the MO-GLOs as a framework for unit planning centered on Artemis and will create a hands-on lesson to "hook" the students.

Speakers