A Thinking Outside the Box Event
Panel Discussion: Supporting Gifted & Twice Exceptional Learners
Featuring Leaders in Education, Advocacy, and Neurodiversity
Time: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

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

This panel brings together educators, clinicians, and advocates working at the forefront of gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) education to reflect on the day’s themes and engage in conversation with the audience.

Panelists will discuss the current landscape of gifted and neurodivergent education, challenges within school systems, innovative models of learning, and practical ways families and educators can better support students whose needs are often misunderstood or overlooked. The discussion will include time for audience questions and shared dialogue.

Panelists: 

Kathryn Cohen, Gifted NYS
Kathryn will open the panel with an introduction to Gifted NYS and an overview of the current state of gifted education in New York State, including advocacy efforts and systemic challenges.

Jacqui Byrne, Founder of FlexSchool
Jacqui brings the perspective of alternative and student-centered education models through her work founding FlexSchool, a learning environment designed to meet students where they are and support diverse learning profiles.

Dr. Matthew Zakreski
Clinical psychologist, speaker, and author specializing in neurodivergent individuals, including gifted, ADHD, autistic, and dyslexic learners.

Dr. Austina De Bonte
Consultant, speaker, and advocate for gifted and twice-exceptional students, with extensive experience working with families, educators, and school districts to uncover root causes of learning challenges and support equitable education practices. 

Printed workshop materials will be available for attendees to take home.