A Marshalltown Community School District teacher was recently elected to the Iowa Talented and Gifted Association (ITAG) Board of Directors.
Nicole Holman Lankelma, an Extended Learning Program (XLP) Teacher, was selected for the role by the voting members of the organization. She is a member of ITAG and the National Association of Gifted Children (NAGC). Holman Lankelma will begin her two-year term on January 1, 2024.
“I am honored to be selected to the ITAG Board of Directors and to be in such great company,” said Holman Lankelma. “I feel that this election reflects not only my dedication to talented and gifted students, but strides that Marshalltown’s Extended Learning Program staff has taken to be recognized in gifted education across the state. I look forward to this incredible opportunity.”
ITAG is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that was first organized in 1972 when superintendents and area education agency personnel met to determine how to support “students of promise.” The association’s mission is to recognize, value, and support the unique and diverse needs of all talented and gifted children through advocacy, education, and networking.
“Nicole is the perfect addition to the ITAG Board of Directors as she consistently seeks ways to push our gifted students at MCSD,” said Director of Instruction Shauna Smith. “Nicole is knowledgeable and understands the importance of personalized learning at all grade levels. She provides the foundation for XLP at the elementary level and serves as a leader among her team. Nicole will always be a positive advocate for gifted students and we are pleased she is representing this advocacy at the state level.”
“Nicole is a devoted advocate for the gifted students of MCSD and for the XLP program in general,” said Curriculum and Professional Development Lead Jenny Allen. “It is exciting that she is taking her knowledge and leadership skills to a level that will help students across the state.”
