Information about our GT programs for BPS

 

The Bloomington Public Schools

Gifted and Talented Department presents

PARENT & STUDENT WORKSHOP

April 7 8:45-11:30 a.m. Oak Grove MS Media Center

9-10a.m. GT middle school counselor and elementary social workers will introduce the science of calm to adults and students. Through breathing, visualizations and poses, we can learn essential self regulation techniques which lead to happier, healthier and more productive lives.

10:00-11:30 Then, students will join GT staff in a makerspace lab while parents attend a second session with Dr. Teresa Boatman: Through understanding the gifted brain, including executive functioning development and intensity, parents can help support their gifted learners through the journey of childhood. Discuss with psychologist, who specializes in gifted learners, the brain development and social-emotional constructs that interweave with the intellectual capability of the gifted child.

THE CHARACTER CHALLENGE: NURTURING RESILIENCE & CITIZENSHIP IN 21ST CENTURY YOUTH

April 17 4-5:30 p.m. - Oak Grove MS Auditorium

This session is for BPS Staff.  Fostering honesty, integrity, respect, courage, compassion and kindness in our youth is more important than ever. We cannot leave the development of character up to chance. Instead, these skills must be practiced and nurtured. Our speakers will describe the neurological basis of character skills and the main challenges to building them. They will explore the impact of media, stress, and praise on the development of the skills students need to succeed in school and life. Using brain science, stories, and humor, our speakers will share strategies for fostering resilience and citizenship. Register for 1.5 clock hours through PD. Attend the evening session for 2 additional CEUs.

FROM ONLINE SAFETY TO DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP: PARENTING IN AN ONLINE WORLD

April 17 6-8 p.m. - Oak Grove MS Auditorium

This session is for BPS Staff and Parents.  Welcome to parenting in Web 2.0. The Internet, social networking, cell phones, video games and other digital innovations are game changers in our work and family life. We see examples in our kids every day as they multi-task, play on-line video games, create their own YouTube videos, text their friends and post on their Facebook pages. Our speakers will explain how technology is changing the ways that kids learn and socialize. We will also describe both the amazing opportunities associated with growing up in a digital world and the things to watch out for. Parents will leave this workshop with a better understanding of how to maximize the benefits while avoiding the pitfalls of the online world. Our speakers will answer important questions like:

• Are kids really good multi-taskers?
• Is Internet addiction real?
• How can we address cyberbullying?
• Is texting connecting us or disconnecting us?
• What can young people do to become good, caring digital citizens?