TAGT Forum for Advanced Leadership

Grounded in Research. Designed for Action.

The Forum for Advanced Leadership is a research-based leadership development program created specifically for district and campus leaders serving gifted and talented education.

Using the research and expertise of Celeste Sodergren, Ph.D., and Keri Guilbault, Ph.D., as the foundation, the Forum helps participants strengthen their leadership identity, improve communication and coaching practices, build strategic program management systems, and lead instructional improvement for gifted learners.

Through a balance of theory and application, participants leave with concrete plans and frameworks they can immediately implement within their districts.

What You'll Experience

4 Live Learning Experiences + 4 Asynchronous Courses = 8 Hours of Professional Learning

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Why Participate?

Participants in the Forum for Advanced Leadership will:

Develop a deeper understanding of their personal leadership identity and how it shapes their effectiveness
Strengthen communication, collaboration, coaching, and feedback skills
Learn practical approaches for managing programs strategically and efficiently
Build systems and planning tools that support long-term program alignment and growth
Gain research-based instructional leadership strategies specific to gifted education
Create actionable implementation plans tailored to their district and program needs
Receive 8 hours of professional learning

Program Overview

CouRSE 1

Personal Leadership Identity

This course focuses on developing leadership self-awareness and clarifying the multifaceted role of the District G/T Leader. Participants explore their leadership identity, evaluate their values and priorities, and learn how to align their time, energy, and responsibilities for greater effectiveness and sustainability.

Participants will:

Explore personal leadership identity and leadership style
Clarify the many dimensions of the District G/T Leader role
Identify priorities, values, and goals that guide effective leadership decisions
Develop strategies for balancing responsibilities and maximizing impact

CouRSE 2

Coaching & Collaboration

This course examines the complexities of communication, collaboration, and relationship-building within educational leadership. Participants learn how to foster productive partnerships, provide meaningful feedback, and navigate communication challenges while supporting teams and stakeholders.

Participants will:

Understand the dynamics of interpersonal and team communication
Explore the difference between win-win thinking and an infinite-game mindset
Practice giving and receiving effective feedback in coaching and evaluation settings
Develop strategies for managing up and strengthening professional influence

CouRSE 3

Program Management

This section equips leaders with practical tools for strategic thinking, planning, and program organization. Participants learn how to move programs toward greater alignment while balancing long-term vision with day-to-day implementation needs.

Participants will:

Develop a roadmap for program alignment and growth
Differentiate between strategy and planning
Build planning tools such as Gantt charts and implementation timelines
Organize multiple initiatives and responsibilities into cohesive systems

CouRSE 4

Instructional Leadership

This course prepares leaders to guide curriculum and instructional improvement for gifted and talented students at the district level. Participants explore gifted curriculum models, instructional strategies, and implementation planning to support meaningful long-term improvement.

Participants will:

Understand the district-level role of instructional leadership in gifted education
Examine gifted curriculum models and instructional strategies
Evaluate approaches for supporting advanced learners effectively
Create a multi-year plan for curriculum and instructional improvement aligned to district goals

Program Details

Price: $599

Open to TAGT Members + Nonmembers

Gatherings will take place once a month, October-March, virtually. Final dates to be determined.

The registration form will require you to log in with your existing TAGT member profile or create a new profile.

You can pay via credit card or request an invoice to pay via purchase order or check. You will receive a confirmation email following your registration with program access information.

Explore the G/T Leadership Pathway

G/T Coordinator Boot Camp

Build your leadership confidence with a one-day virtual workshop focused on policy, assessment, planning, communication, and practical tools.

Learn More

Emerging Leaders Program

Build your leadership capacity with mentorship, targeted training, and peer connection designed to support effective district G/T leadership.

Learn More

Bundle All Three Programs and Save

Bundle G/T Coordinator Boot Camp, the Emerging Leaders Program, and the Forum for Advanced Leadership, and save nearly $500.

Learn More

Take Your Leadership Learning Further

Continue your growth at the annual in-person TAGT Leadership Conference, where district and campus leaders come together to share practical strategies, strengthen program design, and connect with peers across Texas.