The 2e Center Speaker Series Presents

From Blank Page To Breakthrough: Supporting 2e Reluctant Writers

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While 2e learners possess conceptual depth, writing often triggers frustration and cognitive overload. During this Speaker Series panel, Dr. Stacey Hilborn facilitates an inquiry with three experts into why gifted students encounter writing challenges and how to offer targeted support. The discussion examines barriers like perfectionism, executive dysfunction, and academic trauma, presenting strengths-centered frameworks that move students from task-avoidance toward self-efficacy and confidence. Meet Our Panelists: Mary McInerney: Educator, Learning Specialist, and author of Creative Writing with Miss Mary Mac. Mary earned her doctorate from the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education and utilizes a strengths-based approach to champion student voice in young writers. Michael Degen, Ph.D.: A veteran educator with over thirty years of experience teaching AP English at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas and a College Board consultant, Michael is an accomplished author of several books, including The Instructional Coach’s Playbook. Ian Berry: Drawing on his literary studies at the University of Texas and the Sorbonne, Ian Berry has spent the last decade teaching English at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas. He brings a spirit of curiosity and play to the classroom and is the co-author of The Instructional Coach’s Playbook alongside his former teacher and mentor, Dr. Michael Degen.