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.
Stepping into a gifted education role can feel overwhelming. Many new gifted teachers are handed a roster of high-ability students, but little guidance on how to design rigorous instruction, align with standards, manage intensities, or build a sustainable program.
In this practical and honest session, participants will explore the 10 most common mistakes new gifted teachers make, and learn how to avoid them. Through real classroom examples, lesson redesign demonstrations, and program-building strategies, attendees will leave with concrete tools to move beyond “more work” and toward meaningful depth, alignment, and long-term impact.
This session blends classroom practice with systems thinking, helping new gifted educators build both strong instruction and a strong foundation for their program. Participants will receive a first-year planning template, lesson redesign framework, and a sustainable program roadmap they can implement immediately.
Whether you are in your first year or rebuilding a struggling program, this session will equip you with clarity, confidence, and direction.
