Alisa Johnson

Alisa Johnson, M.Ed,. is a gifted specialist in the Paradise Valley Unified School District in Phoenix, Arizona. Alisa is also a professional development consultant presenting practices on cultivating culturally responsive, dynamic learning communities. Alisa presents at district, state and national professional conferences. She co-authored an article in the NAGC Gifted Child Today professional Journal: Elevating Voice and Opportunity Through Culturally Sustainable Practices (2024).

To Be Young. To Be Gifted. To Be Black: Creating dynamic learning spaces and opportunities that support Black students in the classroom and which foster BLACK EDUCATION EXCELLENCE

To Be Young. To Be Gifted. To Be Black. This presentation offers insights and discussion for educators that inform the engagement and instruction of Black students. The FOCUS of this presentation is the celebration of historic Black voices and the needs of 21st century Black students in today’s classrooms. The presentation considers the important role educators play in the life of Black students: planting seeds of affirmation and love; cultivating inspiration, giftedness and talent; nurturing and teaching a sense of identity and purpose. The presentation FUNCTIONS as a resources and practices guide for educators of Black students.

Educators are invited to engage in this important and relevant dialogue of honoring Black legacy, and at the same time, being conscious of the needs and challenges of 21st century Black students.