Gifted Quarter Update (2020)

Gifted Quarter Update (2020)

Dear Parents and Families,

I have truly enjoyed getting to know your students this first quarter, even though we are behind masks and shields. Your routine has become a finely tuned machine with the strides you and your family have made this quarter. As the quarter ends, for some it may feel as though it quickly came and went, while others may feel as though it lasted forever. Our students continue to thrive in our unique predicaments.

For the 2020-2021 school year, I am serving as the Gifted Consultative Teacher for the following schools:

• Picolata Crossing Elementary
• Palm Valley Academy
• Valley Ridge Academy
• Pacetti Bay Middle School

A.A. Milne/Christopher Robin said it best, “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” Our kids can do amazing things! With courage, strength, and determination they continue to thrive and show such growth! I am so thankful that I am part of this process.

Classroom teachers have also incredible, brave, and strong this first quarter. Their adaptability, innovation, and engaging lessons continue to shine, regardless of what the learning environment may look like.

As for my work with students and teachers his year, some things have looked relatively similar to years past, while other things look a bit different.

• Behind the Scenes
  • There has been a lot of “behind the scenes” work to ensure that your child’s teacher is adequately supported so that he/she can meet the needs of our gifted student on a day-to-day basis.
• Small Group
  • Social and emotional aspects of giftedness
    • Leadership skills
    • Collaborating with peers
    • Managing stress & anxiety
    • Perseverance
    • Creativity/Critical thinking Skills
    • Handling extreme emotions
    • Dealing with failure
  • 1:1 meetings
    • Time management, organization, perfectionism, leadership, etc.

• • “What’s Up Wednesday” is another way I have found to stay connected with my students. Since interaction has been a bit limited, I post on Schoology every week a “What’s up Wednesday” question. I share out a random question that provides our students with opportunities to socialize with each other online through Schoology. They can also send me a message directly with their answers.
• Gifted Survey (Middle School)
  • Middle School students completed a survey on organization. From there, I will be meeting with students based on their results.
  • Please check with your middle school gifted student to see if he/she has completed the survey.
• Schoology
  • All my gifted students have access to our Schoology group and enrichment opportunities.
  • Our Schoology group has made communication and learning so much fun!
  • Tons of enrichment opportunities and collaboration
  • I am posting on our Schoology group multiple times a week.
  • Students can share their projects with me through Schoology or you can e-mail them to me.

Schoology Group: Our Schoology Group is a wonderful resource to you and your student. If you haven’t done so already, please explore Schoology with your student. You can also ask him/her what has been their most favorite enrichment activity.

• To locate the folder: Under the “resources” tab,” it will take them to a folder titled, “Enrichment with Mrs. Seaman.” This is where all of the enrichment opportunities are located.
• On Schoology this school year, I have been posting directly on the page as well as adding resources in our enrichment folder.

Enrichment Opportunities Found on Schoology:

As always, please feel free to reach out to me if you have any gifted-related questions or if there is a specific way in which you need support.  I am happy to help in any way that I can.  You can email me at [email protected]

Best wishes for a safe and happy school year!

Brandie Seaman, M.Ed.

Gifted Consultative Teacher
St. Johns County School District

Exceptional Student Education Department

40 Orange Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084

[email protected]