Spring Branch ISD Featured News

During the Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT) giftED22 conference, six Spring Branch ISD Gifted and Talented students participated in Out of the Mouth of Babes: The Real Lived Experiences of Third through Fifth Grade Gifted Students. In this panel, they shared their experiences with educators and state administrators. 

“I am so proud of our students!” said Colleen Mitchell, a teacher at The Bendwood School. “This panel provided them with a space to discuss their emotional, social and academic internal thought processes as they navigate their learning journeys. It also reminds all educators of our ‘Why.’” 

The TAGT giftED22 conference connects and empowers educators and parents to meet the unique needs of their GT students. Through the annual event, teachers and parents can obtain educational services to support students. 

This year was the first time the conference included a panel of students. As a TAGT conference steering committee member, Mitchell wrote a proposal to have students participate and answer questions. 

“I was thrilled when my proposal was accepted!” added Mitchell. “To provide our students with adequate resources, we must listen to them and understand how they are feeling. The panel gave the audience insight into what it really is like to be a gifted student.” 

Questions during the panel ranged from the best thing about being a gifted student, challenges faced and what they would like to change about their school.  

Every Child at SBISD is fueled by their own passions, interests and goals. Through experiences like these, they are building their Core Characteristics and becoming Persistent & Adaptable students. This panel allowed them to reflect on how they maximize their gifts and talents and welcome challenges to grow. 

Parents had the opportunity to attend and were excited to see their students share their experiences with other parents, teachers and administrators. 

“We are grateful to Ms. Mitchell for providing this amazing experience for my daughter Alina,” said Monica Calle, a participating student’s parent. “She was proud to share her thoughts with the teachers and staff, and we loved seeing her answer and participate confidently. This was a great personal accomplishment for her and all the other students.” 

Participating students included: 

Nevin Alarakhia, Frostwood Elementary 

Braxton Brozek, Pine Shadows Elementary 

Maddox Chambers, Rummel Creek Elementary

Alina Clavijo, Meadow Wood Elementary

Skylar Means, Meadow Wood Elementary

Paola Soto, Westwood Elementary