Educator helps with proclamation

A local educator from Marshall County is helping shineastatewidespotlighton gifted education. Oklahoma has officially proclaimed the first full week of April as Gifted and Talented (G/T) Awareness Week, recognizing the importance of supporting advanced learners across the state.

The proclamation was requested by Kendra Webb of Kingston, Okla., EL and GT CoordinatoratVirtualPreparatory AcademyofOklahoma (VPREP Oklahoma), as part of her continued advocacy for gifted students and their unique learning needs.

“Advocating for gifted students is deeply personal to me,” said Webb. “As both a Gifted and Talented Coordinator and a parent of a gifted learner, I have seen firsthand how important it is to provide meaningful challenge, understanding, and support so that gifted students can reach their full potential.”

Observed annually during the first full week of April, G/T Awareness Week encourages schools, families, and communities across Oklahoma to celebrate gifted learners while increasing awareness of their academic and social-emotional needs.

Schools throughout Marshall County, southern Oklahoma, and across the state are participating by sharing resources, sparking conversations, and encouraging families and educators to jointhe#whyGTcampaign— highlighting why gifted education matters.

At Virtual Preparatory AcademyofOklahoma,which serves students statewide, gifted education remains a priority. The school provides enrichment opportunities and differentiated instruction designed to challenge and support advanced learners, helping them grow academically and pursue their passions.

“This recognition is an important step in ensuring gifted students across Oklahoma— especially in communities like Marshall County and throughout southern Oklahoma—are seen, supported, and challenged,” said Head of Schools Erin Robins. “We are proud of the leadership shown by educators like Mrs. Webb in advocating for students across our state.”

With this proclamation, Oklahoma joins educators and advocates in reaffirming a commitment to developing the potential of gifted learners—many of whom will become the future leaders, innovators, and problem- solvers in communities across southern Oklahoma and beyond.