Thinking Outside the Box: Identifying, Supporting, and Advocating for the unique needs of the Gifted and Twice Exceptional
Thinking Outside the Box: Identifying, Supporting, and Advocating for the Unique Needs of the Gifted and Twice Exceptional is a full-day learning experience for parents, educators, caregivers, and advocates who want to better understand and support gifted and twice exceptional (2e) learners.
Featuring filmmaker Tom Ropelewski, clinical psychologist Dr. Matthew Zakreski, education advocate Dr. Austina De Bonte, Kathryn Cohen of Gifted NYS, and Jacqui Byrne, founder of FlexSchool, the day brings together voices working at the intersection of education, neurodiversity, and advocacy.
Through a documentary screening, live Q&A, hands-on workshops, and a closing panel discussion, the program explores how giftedness and learning differences intersect, why so many 2e students are misunderstood or underserved in traditional systems, and what it looks like to move beyond deficit-based models toward strengths-based, affirming approaches.
Participants will engage with real stories, research-backed strategies, and innovative educational models, creating space for connection, shared learning, and meaningful dialogue about how to better support students whose brilliance doesn’t fit neatly into existing boxes.
Attendees are welcome to come to any or all events.
Thinking Outside the Box Events:
10:30 AM - Film Screening & Discussion — 2e: Twice Exceptional
12:30 PM - 2e or Not 2e : Supporting Twice Exceptional Learners at Home and School with Dr. Matthew Zakreski
1:30 PM - The Neurodiversity Playbook Book Signing with Author Dr. Matthew Zakreski
3:30 PM - Panel Discussion: Supporting Gifted & Twice Exceptional Learners