FOR EDUCATORS

Opportunities for Educators

Teach A Class

Are you a certified teacher looking for a fun new challenge? GRC is always looking for qualified educators to teach our Learning Lab enrichment classes in the fall and winter. We also have more limited opportunities available during our Summer Academies program.

If you’d like to learn more, please contact Executive Director Laura Falk at lfalk@giftedresourcecouncil.org or (314) 962-5920. (Gifted certification preferred, but not required.)

Gifted Resource Council educators reading with children

Professional Development

GRC is happy to come to your school and offer PD on gifted learners – OR we can help connect you with others who can. Give us a call for more information. (314) 962-5920

 

(Through Gifted Association of Missouri)

Monday, October 20-Play for learning with Dr. Denise Ford, PhD – Do we play enough? We were born to play, and we do some of our most powerful learning when we are at play. Yet play has become synonymous only with the experiences of our youngest children. How can we foster a more playful environment in our schools, homes, and communities? How can we help our older gifted youth to embrace play? As parents and teachers. we need to play more as well. What’s behind all of this? Let me playfully convince you of the many, many benefits of play for all!

Register here: https://forms.gle/ONVioNcWEz8xhoC66

 

Monday, November 17-The Social Emotional Learning Benefits of Academic Competitions with Alex Dzurick  How can key Lessons about teamwork and sportsmanship be extended to academic, co·curricular competitive opportunities? Math contests and other academic competitions provide a rich resource for multidisciplinary social-emotional teaming lessons in winning gracefully. losing fair and square. and the spirit of healthy cooperation and competition. Attendees will explore avenues to support SEL and encourage academically inclined students to apply sportsmanship with their own interests. Register here: https://forms.gle/t6gY447LWenbNkf48

 

Monday, January 12-What The Heck is Executive Functioning? with Nancy Bonn-Winkler, M.Ed., LPC. A long time ago, I asked that same question! Within our hour we will breakdown this complex sounding topic by defining, naming, and exploring individual executive functioning skills. Special attention will be given to how these skills relate to the gifted child, and those with ADHD and/or ASD. If you are asking yourself if this topic is really that important, the answer is YES! Why? These brain based skills are required to execute and perform all tasks!

Register here: https://forms.gle/Ng§9§hw1Pod4VPp11

 

Monday, February 9-AI with Colin Davitt (Lindbergh Schools Director of Innovation)

Unlock your creative potential as an educator in this dynamic  session tailored for Missouri teachers! Discover how artificial intelligence can revolutionize your professional practice-helping you brainstorm fresh lesson ideas, design engaging curricula, and explore innovative teaching strategies with ease. Learn simple ways to integrate Al-powered tools to streamline lesson planning, uncover new approaches to learning, and simplify assessment creation. Whether you’re new to digital resources or eager to supercharge your instructional toolkit. this session offers hands·on guidance and practical examples so you can work smarter-not harder. Experience a supportive environment focused on your growth and efficiency, empowering you to become a more inspired, resourceful and future·ready educator.

Parents are welcome to attend too!

Register here: https://forms.gle/CCgy2NBVtwNYcddsg

 

THURSDAY! April16-Hippos Teeth Have Awful Odors (Neuroanatomy Mnemonics for Understanding the Emotional Needs of Gifted Learners) with Dr. Kathryn Fishman-Weaver (•Or  KFW•)

A wholehearted, story-rich session on supporting the social-emotional development of gifted learners. Building on her research and school-based practice, Dr. KFW uses memorable mnemonics and stories to teach about neuroanatomy and its connection to emotions. relationships and learning. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of brain-based learning and practical tools to help gifted learners navigate challenges with confidence, purpose, and even laughter.

Session Objectives:

• Examine brain-based research on the emotional need of gifted learners.

• Apply practical strategies to support social-emotional development.

• Leverage story, gratitude, and humor to foster connection and resilience.

Register here·httP5//focms91e/ l4AYlJ1a8IwGmmPPJ6

Discover Our Programs

Gifted Resource Council Learning Labs

LEARNING LABS

Gifted Resource Council Summer Camps

SUMMER ACADEMIES

Gifted Resource Council Academic Challenge Cup

ACADEMIC CHALLENGE CUP

Laura Falk, M.Ed.

Executive Director

Laura brings 35 years of experience in the education and nonprofit sectors. She has worked in public and independent schools for almost 20 years, as well as 15 years in nonprofit organizations. She has bachelors degrees in English and Theatre from Vanderbilt University and her masters in education from Southern Oregon University.

“As someone involved in education and organizations serving youth for my entire professional career, I particularly understand the importance of programs that address the needs and challenges of bright and talented children, as well as for their parents and teachers.”

She goes on to say, “Both my sons greatly enjoyed Equations competitions, and my younger son also participated in Creative Convention, Saturday Learning Labs, and Summer Academies. So I have seen—both as a parent and an educator—what a powerful presence GRC provides to bright and gifted students in the community..”

Outside of work, Laura is an award-winning quilter and can also be found hiking, reading and doing word puzzles. She has a goal of visiting all the national parks, and is currently at 27 out of 63.

Megan Barr

Office Manager

Megan provides the delightful voice on the phone when someone calls GRC. She’s also a whiz with spreadsheets and databases and keeps the logistics side of the office humming. Her previous experience includes work as a technology trainer and administrative assistant at NESI, and the UMSL Computer Education and Training Center. Outside of work, Megan is a writer, crafter, and keeper of two wonderful cats, Loki and Freya.

Megan Barr

Marla Dell

Bookkeeper

Marla is GRC’s keeper of all things financial since 1995. Marla also provides the institutional knowledge in our tiny office, as she’s been involved with GRC since her son was a participant. Marla won the Gifted Association of Missouri 2001 Parent Award for her contributions to gifted education in Missouri. Marla can also often be found volunteering at her church, gardening, and playing with her new kitten Bubba.

Gifted Resource Council blue star

Stock Gifts

Contact your financial advisor and provide the information below to ensure a quick and accurate transfer of funds:

  • GRC’s broker: First Clearing Corp., Wells Fargo Advisors
  • D.T.C. #: 0141
  • Account #: 5580-7980
  • Account Name: Gifted Resource Council
  • Contact Name: Ray Palmer
  • Phone: 636-530-3401

Notify GRC of your intent to make a gift of stock, with the following information to Laura Falk, Executive Director, at 314.962-5920 or lfalk@giftedresourcecouncil.org:

  • Donor’s name
  • Name of the stock being transferred
  • Number of shares transferred
  • Transaction date
  • Name of your financial advisor or bank handling the transfer