Equity in Gifted Education: Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion with Dr. Erinn F. Floyd

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How can teachers move from a "deficit mindset" to a "dynamic mindset" when recognizing creativity and intelligence in diverse learners?

In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood engage in a rich dialogue with Dr. Erin F. Floyd, a renowned scholar specializing in gifted education, diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Dr. Floyd, who serves as the Director of Training and Partnership Development for the Consortium for Inclusion of Underrepresented Racial Groups in gifted education, discusses the historical and ongoing challenges of identifying and supporting gifted students, particularly those from underrepresented populations. Drawing from her own personal journey and extensive professional experience, Dr. Floyd explores how systemic changes and a more inclusive approach can enhance the identification process and lead to greater racial equity within gifted education. The conversation takes a deep dive into the importance of moving from deficit thinking towards dynamic thinking, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders to ensure that all high-ability students receive appropriate educational opportunities.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Floyd highlights various strategies for educators to more effectively recognize and nurture giftedness in students from diverse backgrounds. She shares insights into the historical context of gifted education, including the impact of the eugenics movement and the importance of multiple criteria in identifying gifted students. With a focus on real-world application, Dr. Floyd discusses her development of online learning modules designed to train educators on recognizing gifted behaviors among minority students. As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Floyd shares her vision for the future of gifted education, calling for a more uniform, equitable policy across the nation and the inclusion of gifted education training in teacher preparation programs. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the intrinsic value of inclusivity in education and be empowered to advocate for necessary changes that uphold the diverse needs of gifted students.

About Dr. Erinn F. Floyd: Founder/CEO of Equity and Excellence in Education, LLC, provides culturally relevant professional learning and advocacy for educators, organizations, parents, and students. Special Populations in Gifted Education and Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading are online badging courses for educators of all content areas/levels. Dr. Floyd many roles over 32 years include classroom teacher, Gifted and School Improvement Specialist, District Gifted Education Coordinator, Assistant Principal, Director of Professional Learning for NAGC, and State Director of Gifted Education for the Alabama Department of Education. She has served as lecturer and professor at Texas State University, The University of Maryland, The University of Georgia, and Alabama State University.

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For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education