Gifted

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to an exciting new year with Greenbrier’s Gifted Education Program! I am thrilled to partner with you in nurturing your child's talents and fostering a love for learning in both Mathematics and English Language Arts. Our program is designed to challenge, inspire, and support students as they explore advanced concepts, engage in creative problem-solving, and develop critical thinking skills.

Throughout the year, your child will have opportunities to participate in enriching activities, collaborative projects, and stimulating discussions that go beyond the standard curriculum. I am committed to creating a dynamic learning environment where curiosity is encouraged, and every student's potential is valued.

I believe that parent involvement is a key component of student success, and I look forward to working with you throughout the year. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out to me. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to an engaging and rewarding year!

Sincerely,

Robin Howie

Greenbrier’s Gifted Specialist

robin.howie@dvusd.org

Gifted Recommended Supply List

2- boxes of #2 pencils 

1- ream of white copy paper

1- pkg of college ruled lined paper

1- 3 ring 1” binder per subject (3rd and 4th grade Math, 6th grade Math and ELA)

1- box of Kleenex please!

Gifted students in grades 3 through 6 are typically expected to demonstrate advanced cognitive abilities, intellectual curiosity, and a readiness to engage with complex, abstract concepts. These students often exhibit strong verbal skills, a high level of creativity, and the ability to make connections across subjects. They are usually comfortable with accelerated content, critical thinking tasks, and open-ended problem-solving. While academic readiness varies, gifted students at this level are generally prepared to engage with materials above their grade level, participate in meaningful discussions, and apply higher-order thinking skills to real-world situations. Essential academic and social behavior maturity, and a willingness to persevere through challenging tasks also contribute to their success in a gifted program.

Ms. Robin Howie

Hello! 

My name is Ms. Howie, and I am the 3rd–6th Grade Gifted Specialist at Greenbrier Elementary.

I began my college journey at the age of 36, earning my associate degree from Glendale Community College and my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University. After taking a break to focus on my new teaching career, I pursued my master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Northern Arizona University, which I proudly completed in 2017.

In addition to my degrees, I hold an ESL endorsement and a provisional endorsement in Gifted Education. I am on track to receive my full gifted endorsement in May 2025. I firmly believe that you are never too old to learn something new!

Throughout my teaching career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse age groups and learning styles. I spent 10 years teaching Head Start preschool, followed by 4 years teaching kindergarten. Now, I am thrilled to continue my journey in gifted education.

My goals as a teacher are to foster independence, encourage personal accountability for one's own learning, and inspire a passion for growth and excellence in everything students dream of achieving. I am excited to meet and get to know your child, and I look forward to a year full of learning, discovery, and success!