Embedded Files
Our 2025-26 theme for GT students in all grades is Design Thinking and Entrepreneurship. We will examine this theme throughout the year with a focus on the following skills:
Critical Thinking
Interpersonal Relationships
Quality Work
Self Discipline
Creative Thinking
Time Management
Problem Solving
Risk Taking
As always, we will continue to incorporate higher level thinking skills through the use of Sandra Kaplan's depth & complexity icons and interdisciplinary connections.
Design Thinking and Independent Projects:
GT students in grades 6, 7, and 8 will explore and engage in the design thinking process and have the opportunity to brainstorm and work on a variety of creative challenges.
They will also be given the opportunity to develop an in-depth independent project on a topic of great interest in the spring.
When working on Independent Projects, there are three main criteria: New Learning for each student, a demonstration of Creative Thinking (either in the product itself or in the display of it), and Higher Level Thinking (analysis, depth and complexity, etc). If students are not enjoying the projects they have selected, then they have chosen the wrong topic! A link to the 2026 GT Student Independent Study Guide will be available soon! This is our 32nd Anniversary of showcasing student independent project work, and we can't wait to share our ideas!
STEAM Days:
In the past, interested students in grades 7 and 8 have had an opportunity to develop and present hands-on activities and lessons related to Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math at our three Eanes ISD feeder elementary schools' "STEAM Day" events. Interested 6th grade students have been able to participate as "apprentices" alongside the 7th and 8th graders in the spring semester. We accept the challenge to be even more creative as we continue with our maker mindsets and find a way to make and present to the community this year!
World Peace Game:
Our 8th grade classes participate in an amazing problem solving activity called "The World Peace Game." It takes 12-15 sessions to explain and play the game, so one class would usually play in the Fall semester and the other would play during the Spring semester.
The World Peace Game focuses on critical thinking, strategy, collaboration, and communication skills in order to help students resolve and transform the conflicts presented to them. It requires students to compromise, be creative, and consider different perspectives and interests. Please click the link to read more: http://worldpeacegame.org/the-game
Schedule
Schedule
Students are scheduled to work with a GT Specialist once per week during their Social Studies class (grades 6/ 7/8). With the permission of the GT teacher and the classroom teacher, students may come to GT at other times to work on individual projects.
Certain Fridays will be designated "GT Open Door Days". Students may work on projects or activities of their choice, including reverse engineering, strategy games, art and/or design projects, reading, and more.
Supplies
Supplies
Students should bring with them a fully charged iPad each day. I would like to request that each student provide one small box of pencils at the start of the year which will be collected and shared with all of our classes throughout the year.
Classroom Management
Classroom Management
I believe that all students can behave appropriately in the classroom without disrupting the learning process. All students are expected to demonstrate respect for each other, visitors, the teacher, materials, ideas and school property.
If problems should occur:
1.) A conference with the student will be held.
2.) If there are continuing issues, parents will be notified, and appropriate action will be taken.
3.) If behavior concerns persist, an office referral will be written. (Serious infractions lead to immediate office referral.)
All students are expected to arrive on time after checking in with his /her social studies teacher, to have necessary materials, and to be prepared to participate in all class activities.
District AI Policy
"Eanes ISD supports the thoughtful and responsible use of AI tools to enhance teaching and learning. In this class, approved AI tools may be used to support instruction, provide practice opportunities, and offer feedback. Students will be clearly informed when AI use is allowed on an assignment. All AI use must follow district policies, including protecting personal information and using only district-approved tools."
Evaluation and Conferences
Evaluation and Conferences
Informal feedback is available at all times! A formal evaluation rubric will be sent home at the end of the semester. Conferences may be arranged at any time by emailing me and setting up an appointment. Please email or set up an appointment whenever you have any questions or concerns.
Carol Reese
Gifted and Talented Specialist
West Ridge Middle School
512.732.9240 x32924
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