SMU 7th Grade Gifted Boys Conference: An Investment in Tomorrow

Each year the SMU Gifted Students Institute sponsors a fall conference for 7th grade gifted boys and a spring conference for 7th grade gifted girls. The fall event for boys will be held on the SMU campus on October 14, 2008. Gifted boys from all three Coppell middle schools will go to SMU on a bus. Students will be picked up at their home campus between 8:00 and 8:30 and will return to their home campus by 3:00pm.

The day will include a keynote talk by Dr. Dennis Simon of SMU, as well as two breakout sessions lead by college students.  Dennis Simon is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science which he joined in 1986. His Ph.D. is from Michigan State University and he specializes in the American Presidency and Congress. He has received numerous awards, including the “M” Award, the H.O.P.E. Recognition (twice), and the President’s Associates Award. He has taught for many years in SMU’s Talented and Gifted Program as well as the College Experience program. He regularly conducts adult seminars in the community beyond SMU and participates in the Teaching Institutes sponsored by the Advanced Placement Program.

Students praise Dennis for his comprehensive syllabi, his availability and concern for students beyond the classroom, and his enthusiasm in presenting class material. About one class a student writes, “He really went all out and made it a fun, interesting and educational class”.

The cost for the event is $55 per student. That cost covers registration at SMU and a transportation fee for the field trip bus.

SMU has a limited number of spaces available, and they will fill up quickly. Registration will be on a first come, first served basis. To register, complete the form available on the CGA website and return it to Melissa Mahan in the CISD Administration Building. The deadline for registration is September 19th, but we encourage you to return your form and money as soon as possible to guarantee a spot on the trip.

This will be a great opportunity for these students to be among their peers – an important need for gifted kids. Don’t miss out!