Gifted Education
Gifted Network and Gifted Workshops for Educators
Gifted Network
The Gifted Network was created as a professional learning community for teachers and supervisors of gifted students. IU13 formed this network specifically for the 22 school districts and other nonpublic institutions in Lancaster and Lebanon counties, but districts outside IU13 are also welcome to participate.
There is no cost for any district staff to participate in the IU13 Gifted Network meetings. These FOUR half-day job-alike gatherings will be facilitated by IU13 and open to any staff invested in supporting the academic growth of gifted/advanced learners and complying with Chapter 16 regulations. Each meeting addresses topics relevant to gifted education and also provides a forum for discussion about current issues in gifted education at the classroom, building, and district levels. Networking with others in the field of gifted education is an integral part of each meeting and allows for collaboration between participants. The IU13 Gifted Network Schoology Group also fosters communication and resource sharing across districts.
Regular education teachers are always welcome. PDE emphasizes the importance of collaboration between gifted support and regular education teachers in meeting the individual needs of gifted students.
To join the Gifted Network at IU13, please email Brian Booker at brian_booker@iu13.org.
Featured Sessions with Emily Kircher-Morris:
Creating a Neurodiversity-Affirming School
Act 48 Course
Neurodivergent students, including those who are autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, twice-exceptional, and beyond, deserve learning environments where their strengths are recognized, their needs are respected, and they aren’t expected to mask who they are to succeed. In this interactive workshop, Emily Kicher-Morris, LPC, guides educators through a deep dive into the AWARE Framework (Adapt, Wonder, Accommodate, Relate, Empower), a practical model for reimagining support for all learners. Participants will explore real classroom scenarios, collaborate on inclusive strategies, and gain tools for shifting mindsets and practices. Together, we’ll challenge deficit-based models and learn how to create schools where neurodivergent students feel safe, seen, and empowered to thrive. This workshop blends research, storytelling, and hands-on application-ideal for educators ready to move from awareness to meaningful action.
Cost: $199 for Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 schools; $250 for non-IU13 schools
Price includes registration, lunch, and a book.
Download the “Creating a Neurodiversity-Affirming School” flyer
Helping Gifted and 2e Kids Manage “All the Feels”
Processing and managing emotions is challenging even for the most level-headed among us, but for gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) kids and teens, dealing with “all the feels” can be especially exhausting. Join us for an insightful session with Emily Kircher-Morris where she will guide parents and educators through a 4-step process of emotional regulation. With compassion and practical strategies, Emily will help us support our kids who are “a little bit extra” in finding healthy ways to understand and manage their emotions. Dinner will be provided during the event.
Gifted learners ages 7 and up are invited to join a concurrent Gifted Student Night facilitated by volunteers from Elizabethtown College. This engaging program offers a supportive environment where gifted children can connect with peers and participate in activities designed specifically for their unique strengths and needs.
No cost to attend. Dinner is provided. Deadline to register: October 7, 2025.
Download the “Helping Gifted and 2e Kids Manage ‘All the Feels'” flyer
Gifted Professional Development Series
Timed to coincide with three of the Gifted Network meetings, IU13 will provide a professional development series specifically designed to connect educators with experts in the field of gifted education. These half-day Gifted Education Workshops will focus on current best practices in gifted education and be led by national experts.
Chapter 16 requires that staff receive professional development in gifted education, and Schoology will be used to share information and build collaboration across districts. Act 48 will be provided for those who attend and complete the required evaluations. When possible, hybrid options for attendance will be arranged. The targeted audience for these workshops includes gifted support teachers, general education teachers, building or district administrators, school psychologists, counselors, and social workers. All workshops take place at the Conference and Training Center at IU13 in Lancaster, PA.
For more information on the Gifted Professional Development Series, please reach out to Brian Booker at brian_booker@iu13.org.
