Rutherford County Schools Gifted Academy, held June 1–3, provided around 40 elementary and middle school teachers with engaging professional learning focused on gifted identification, understanding the unique needs of twice-exceptional learners, and implementing effective classroom strategies to support high-potential students.

Sessions were led by members of the RCS Gifted team, along with award-winning author and Lipscomb University professor, Dr. Emily Mofield. Speakers shared practical tools and resources teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms to better serve gifted students.

This professional development opportunity was made possible through the support of the Jennings and Rebecca Jones Foundation, whose longstanding partnership with the RCS Gifted Department continues to expand opportunities for both educators and students.

"As educators, our commitment to students doesn't end when the school year does," said Courtney Brown, RCS Gifted Supervisor. "I am incredibly grateful for the teachers who invested the first days of their summer in professional learning so they can better recognize and support the strengths and needs of gifted and twice-exceptional learners. Their dedication will have a lasting impact on students across our district."