Name: Right Fit, Right Now: Harnessing Local Norms for Advanced Learning
Start: 2026-10-16T14:15:00-0500
End: 2026-10-16T15:05:00-0500

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.

Right Fit, Right Now: Harnessing Local Norms for Advanced Learning

Friday October 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

LHS Room 52

How can schools and districts ensure all students in need of advanced content have access, while considering variations among schools? Local norms offer a research-backed, practical approach to pinpoint learners in each school ready for advanced coursework. This session clarifies the logic behind local norms, explores the benefits and challenges, addresses stakeholder concerns, and provides actionable strategies for district and building leaders to implement or refine local norms policies. Empower your schools to serve advanced learners with targeted, relevant content that meets students where they are

Speakers

Karen Rambo-Hernandez

Fulbright Research Chair, Spring 2026| University of Calgary CEHD Academic Affairs| Faculty Fellow Teaching, Learning, and Culture| STEM Education Educational Psychology| Research, Measurement, & Statistics (affiliate) Educational Psychology| Learning Sciences (affiliate), College of Education and Human Development Texas A&M University

Opening Keynote Title: Variability in Student Academic Needs: One Size Does Not Fit all
Abstract: Many high-achieving students do not always get what they need from school, since most lessons target grade-level expectations and can overlook how far ahead some students are. In this keynote, I’ll share what research shows about the wide range of achievement in classrooms... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
LHS Room 52

Breakout, Educators, Administrators

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GAM 2026 Conference (Gifted Association of Missouri)

Karen Rambo-Hernandez

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GAM 2026 Conference (Gifted Association of Missouri)

Karen Rambo-Hernandez

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