Dr. Joy Lawson Davis is a nationally recognized leader in diversity education and gifted education. Her work focuses on disrupting disproportionality through professional learning, systemic reform, and culturally affirming practices. See her website to learn more about her. She teaches at the college and graduate level, and speaks in conferences around the world. She is also a former Virginia educator and leader in gifted education back here!
Key Contribution: Equity-Focused Gifted Programming
Dr. Davis’s work centers on helping schools and districts design gifted programs that reflect the diversity of their student populations. She emphasizes the importance of educator mindset, professional learning, and systemic accountability.
Impact on Underrepresented Gifted Students
Her work supports:
- Inclusive and culturally responsive identification practices.
- Instruction that affirms identity and promotes high expectations.
- Systems-level accountability for equity outcomes.
How Educators Can Apply This
Applications include:
- Engaging in equity-focused professional learning.
- Advocating for inclusive gifted policies and practices.
- Centering student identity, voice, and belonging.
In Sum
Dr. Davis’s work underscores that equity in gifted education requires intentional design at every level.
Your Turn
I’ve had the privilege of hearing Dr. Lawson Davis speak at different conferences in Virginia. She always made me think about what my division could do better for our underrepresented gifted students. What systemic changes would most improve equity in your gifted programming? Share your ideas in the comments- I’d love to hear from you! ~Ann
Teaching for Talent 