Much has been written about middle school gifted girls and the challenges they face. More recently, research and writing have focused on gifted boys, especially those from minority backgrounds. This session updates participants on important gender issues and also helps them understand gifted GLBTQ students. Some are "coming out" at home and school as early as the middle grades. Specific strategies, background information, and a local student panel will help educators develop the knowledge and skills they need to help early adolescents deal with bullying, achieve, thrive, and develop balanced healthy identities.