ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the lessons learned from Talent Development Academies as one path to begin talent development-focused teaching in reader's school or district. It explores how to build their talent development school using evidence-based practices effective with underserved students. The Talent Development Megamodel is the umbrella over the Talent Development Instructional Model (TDIM), a model of practice. Once readiness is assessed and a determination is made to become a talent development-focused school, planning for teacher learning is next. Professional learning that is responsive and ongoing, that builds teachers' understanding and ability to teach in ways to support and encourage talent development, is the element that arches over the TDIM model. The content of professional learning includes three instructional pillars described next: advanced curriculum, culturally responsive teaching practices, and neuroscience and psychology of learning.
