Spring ISD hosted its annual Gifted and Talented (G/T) Expo at Dekaney High School on March 26, bringing together more than 300 standout student projects from across the district for an evening centered on creativity, research and academic achievement.

Inside the campus’ cafeteria, the space was transformed into a showcase of big ideas. From paper mache volcanoes and bubble experiments, to cultural displays and live turtle exhibits, each table told a story—one driven by student voice, passion and discovery. Families, staff and district leaders moved from table to table, listening as students explained their work and shared the learning behind it.

“It’s truly inspiring to see our students step forward with confidence—owning their learning and sharing their voice with the world around them,” Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar said. “When we intentionally create spaces for exploration, creativity and leadership, we’re empowering them to discover who they are and realize the full potential of what they can achieve.” 

A central goal of the expo focused on giving students ownership of their learning. Through independent research and self-selected topics, students explored subjects that genuinely interested them, resulting in projects that reflected both creativity and depth. The event also highlighted how advanced academic programming creates space for students to think critically, communicate effectively, and take pride in their work.

“When students are able to combine what they know with something they are passionate about and then show it in a tangible, creative way, it produces work like this,“ said Chelsi Johnston,  G/T Coordinator and Coordinator of Arts Integrations at Link Elementary School. “They may know the material already, but when they are given a way to communicate it, their confidence grows and people are able to truly see what they know.”

That confidence was evident throughout the evening, especially in students like Moses Mendez-Martinez, a 6th grader at Roberson Middle School, who turned his personal interest in history into a hands-on project he proudly shared with others.

“I really like history,” said Mendez-Martinez. “This helped me take something I’m interested in and turn it into something I could explain to other people. It gave me a chance to learn new things and have fun while I was doing it.”

District leaders emphasized that events like the G/T Expo reflect the value of hands-on, student-centered learning experiences that deepen understanding and make learning feel real.

“These kinds of experiences matter incredibly,” said Spring ISD Board of Trustee Winford Adams. “When students are able to build, explore and explain their thinking, it strengthens their understanding in a way that stays with them.”

Family support also played a meaningful role throughout the evening. Parents stood beside their children, listening, encouraging, and celebrating the effort behind each project.

“As a parent it makes me proud,” said Ross Mendez, father of Moses Mendez-Martinez. “When you spend time with your kids and support what they’re doing, it helps them grow and believe in themselves. We encourage other parents to pour into their children, they are capable of doing some amazing things.”