Three Anne Arundel County Public Schools staff members, two students, a student team and a school found themselves in the state spotlight recently as the Maryland Gifted and Talented Advisory Council celebrated excellence and expanded access.
Each year, GTAC recognizes individuals and teams whose work exemplifies excellence, leadership, and innovation in Gifted and Talented Education. Award recipients are selected through a highly competitive, state-level review process conducted by a committee of leaders in gifted education. This year’s honorees represent exceptional contributions to student achievement, instructional practice, and equitable access to advanced learning opportunities.
The following were among this year’s award recipients:
Outstanding Student Accomplishment in Gifted Education (Individual)
Sharon Akinsanmi, Severna Park Middle School
Grady Harig, Severn Run High School (Honorable Mention)
Outstanding Student Accomplishment in Gifted Education (Team)
Advanced Studies Enrichment Group, Monarch Global Academy (Honorable Mention). Student Members: Aadam Alcantara, Chelsea Bazemore, Bernice Dakim, Evan Donnelly, Jace Enfield, Mae France, Christien Jackson, Makai Johnson, Liam Knubel, Evan Liesch, Shannen Nanje, Faith Ofwono, Tiwaloluwa Olojede, Charlotte Sampson, Annalise Truman, and Elisha Jacobs.
Local School System Changemaker in Gifted Education
Mary Rathlev, Academic Specialist, Middle School Math Office
Local School Influencers for Gifted Education
John Panitz, Principal, Jones Elementary School
Lorie Barnes, Principal, Woodside Elementary School
Panitz and Barnes were honored for their intentional leadership in expanding access to Advanced Learning Programs (ALPs) by removing barriers to access and opening opportunities for a broader and more diverse group of students to participate in advanced coursework. Their work reflects a commitment to ensuring that gifted services are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to student potential across their school communities.
Additionally, Crofton Middle School became the first AACPS middle school to achieve EGATE status. Principal Adam Zetwick and his team were honored for their intentional work in increasing rigor and raising expectations for all students at Crofton Middle School. Access to gifted and advanced learning opportunities have increased and teachers throughout the building are using strategies to ensure deep learning is possible for all students.