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

Devices Off, Feelings On: Strategies for Teaching Empathy in Middle School

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

LHS Room 54

Do your gifted tweens need to close their iPads and strengthen their social skills? Middle school is a place where all children long to feel connected but often find themselves without the appropriate tools to build and sustain meaningful relationships. This interactive session provides 6 screen-free, standards-based SEL lessons that improve active listening, empathy, eye contact, and belonging for neurodivergent learners.

Speakers

Dr. Jessica LaFollette

Saturday October 17, 2026 9:45am - 10:35am CDT
LHS Room 54

Breakout, Educators, Administrators

10:45am CDT

Measuring Growth for Advanced Learners

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

LHS Room 54

How do you know if advanced learners are growing academically? How much growth is enough? What are growth norms? Measuring growth for advanced learners can be difficult. This session will define growth for grade-level and above-grade-level assessments, review data practices using NAGC standards, and present the most useful approaches.

Speakers

Melissa Hinshaw

Assessment Director, Northwestern University

Melissa Hinshaw is the Assessment Coordinator at Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development. Throughout her thirty-year career as an education professional, she has served as a classroom teacher, administrator, consultant and Account Manager for NWEA. You can find recent... Read More →

Saturday October 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:35am CDT
LHS Room 54

Breakout, Educators, Administrators