K-12 Panel 2: The Power of Potential: Embedding Strength-Based Enrichment for Neurodiverse Learners
Event Details:
Location
The Power of Potential: Embedding Strength-Based Enrichment for Neurodiverse Learners
Moderator: Rachel Shuck, PhD
Objectives:
- Participants will develop a rationale for using enrichment and talent development as a framework to promote learning, engagement and social and emotional growth.
Participants will learn how to link students' interests and talents to appropriate enrichment and talent development opportunities.
Susan Baum, PhD, Chancellor, Bridges Graduate School
Susan Baum, Ph.D., is the Chancellor of the Bridges Graduate School for Cognitive Diversity in Education and the Director of the 2e Center for Research and Professional Development at Bridges Academy, a school for twice-exceptional students. She has received many awards for her work in twice exceptional education, including Weinfield Group’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Connecticut Association for the Gifted “Friend of the Gifted Award; and Distinguished Professional Alumni Award from the Neag School of Education. Her seminal book co-authored with Robin Schader and Steven Owen now in its third edition, To be gifted and learning disabled: Strength-based strategies for Helping Twice Exceptional Students with LD, ADHD, ASD, and more, was awarded the NAGC Book of the Year award in 2018. A popular speaker and workshop presenter, she has traveled worldwide teaching about creativity, education of the gifted and talented, and twice-exceptionality. She is a frequent presenter at Bright and Quirky—an online summit for supporting gifted neurodiversy students.
Jade Ann Rivera, PhD, Director, Faculty, Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity
Jade Rivera, Ed.D. is the Lab Director of the Strength-Based Assessment Lab and Faculty at Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education. In this role, she leads the Lab’s efforts to empower young people, families, educators, and professionals in creating positive and collaborative learning experiences for children facing challenges in their educational environments. Jade researches strength-based assessment and strength-based, talent-focused approaches for twice-exceptional children. A published author with Routledge, she has written numerous influential articles and blog posts and is a sought-after speaker at national conferences. She also leads impactful workshops for educators and parents, providing innovative strategies for supporting neurodivergent children.
Stacey Hilborn, EdD, Director of Enrichment and Talent Development and Manager, Bridges Academy
Stacey Hilborn, Ed.D. is the Director of Enrichment and Talent Development and Manager of the 2e Center for Research and Professional Development at Bridges Academy, a school serving twice-exceptional (2e) learners in grades 4–12. As a former STEM educator and Middle School Division Director, Stacey brings a unique blend of instructional leadership, program design, and understanding of cognitive diversity to her work. Her focus centers on strength-based, talent-centered learning environments that empower neurodiverse students to thrive academically, socially, and creatively. She designs enrichment programming and professional learning experiences tailored to the complex needs of gifted, neurodivergent learners. Stacey earned her doctorate in cognitive diversity and educational leadership, focusing on the post-secondary transitions of 2e students. Her work bridges research and practice by equipping educators, families, and institutions with tools to nurture potential through strengths. At the 2e Center, she also leads consulting, special projects, and collaborations with external partners supporting 2e learners worldwide.
Mark Long, CEO, Bridges Education Group
Mark Long is the CEO of Bridges Education Group in Studio City, California. With over 25 years of experience in education across Australia and the U.S., he has led major school improvement initiatives and contributed to national policy. Before relocating to the U.S. in 2023, Mark was a District Superintendent in Sydney, overseeing 21 schools, 8,700 students, and 2,200 staff. As a principal, he led his school to its highest academic performance in 70 years. He was a key contributor to the development and rollout of the NSW High Potential and Gifted Education Policy across more than 2,200 schools. Mark serves on the Advisory Council for Bridges Graduate School and is a frequent media commentator on gifted and neurodiverse education. Known for his expertise in systems design and leadership development, he builds frameworks that support both student growth and educator success. His honors include being a finalist for Australian Principal of the Year, the NSW Secretary’s Award, and a Fellowship from the NSW Guild of Teachers. A former world champion athlete, Mark trained at the Australian Institute of Sport and contributed to Olympic programs in 1996 and 2000.