A Thinking Outside the Box Event
Getting Students Writing: How to Support Twice Exceptional Students and Other Reluctant Writers
Workshop with Dr. Austina De Bonte
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Presented by The Empowerment Project in partnership with The Spark of Hudson

Join Dr. Austina De Bonte for an insight-rich workshop focused on supporting twice exceptional students and other reluctant writers. Writing is often one of the most challenging academic areas for 2e learners, and this session offers clear strategies for understanding why writing is difficult and how to help.

Participants will explore the five main causes of writing challenges, learn how to identify what may be happening for an individual student, and gain concrete tools to support each scenario. Drawing on insights from specialists and expert writing tutors, the session is grounded in research and filled with practical techniques that families and educators can apply immediately.

Dr. De Bonte is a consultant, speaker, coach, and advocate for gifted and twice-exceptional students with Smart is Not Easy, LLC.

She is President of the Washington Coalition for Gifted Education, Past President of the Northwest Gifted Child Association, a member of the Washington State Highly Capable Advisory Board, a member of the NAGC Public Policy and Advocacy Committee, and an advisor to The G Word documentary. She regularly presents at regional and national conferences, leads professional development workshops for educators, and consults with families and school districts on equitable identification practices and program development.

Known for her dynamic and engaging presentation style, Dr. De Bonte brings together her lived experience as a student and parent with current research, district practices, and cutting-edge neuroscience. She is especially passionate about supporting gifted and twice-exceptional students in public schools and helping families uncover the root causes of academic challenges beyond the usual explanations.