Tyler ISD celebrated the talent and imagination of its Gifted and Talented (GT) students through a weeklong GT EXPO held across all 16 elementary campuses offering GT services. The annual showcase gave students a platform to present their year-long projects to families, peers, and staff, demonstrating the depth of their learning and creativity.
Each grade level took on a unique academic challenge tied to specific themes, resulting in impressive, hands-on final products:
1st & 2nd Grade: Students explored the solar system, designed original planets, and recorded interviews to share their discoveries.
3rd Grade: Students created original board games complete with commercials and custom logos, blending design, strategy, and storytelling.
4th Grade: Acting as travel agents, students planned a “Texas Getaway” that included a brochure and souvenir highlighting historical sites and theme parks.
5th Grade: Students collaborated with a fictional client to design a building, complete with blueprints and scale models based on architectural styles.
Core+ Program: Inspired by Ada’s Violin, students crafted functional instruments from recycled materials, reflecting the creativity of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay.
The EXPO is more than a display—it's a celebration of student growth, problem-solving, and imagination.
Here’s what some of our students had to say:
“The best part of GT this year was learning how to build instruments out of trash because I never knew that it was possible.” — Za’Maree, 4th grade.
“I think the best part of GT is that I got to meet new people because I can make new friends.” — Matthew, 3rd grade.
“The architectural building project challenged me to be very precise and to measure everything.” — Samantha, 5th grade.
“My favorite GT activity is doing STEM challenges because it encourages my brain to think of more ideas, and I can even use these ideas outside of school.” — Izan, 5th grade.
The GT EXPO was a reminder of how providing space for innovation and exploration can unlock students’ full potential. Thank you to our GT teachers, campus leaders, and families for supporting these young scholars throughout their journey!
