The North Carolina Association for the Gifted and Talented has recognized Laura Parrott, DPS Director of Advanced Academics in Durham Public Schools, for the NCAGT Outstanding Administrator of the Gifted Award, honoring her transformational work. The Award is presented annually to a North Carolina Administrator who has been an advocate and leader in support of gifted children/youth and who exhibits outstanding qualities related to gifted education in the areas of teaching, curriculum development and adaption, working with gifted children/youth, working with parents, and/or dealing with other staff and administrators.
Laura is a delight to work with, bringing boundless energy, humor, and unforgettable stories to every meeting and initiative. Laura’s unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless advocacy for gifted and advanced learners truly embody the spirit of this prestigious recognition.
Over the course of her career, Laura has been a passionate champion for gifted education, holding a range of roles that highlight her depth of expertise and commitment. Starting as an AIG Teacher and progressing through positions such as AIG Specialist, Advanced Academics Coordinator, and now Advanced Academics Director, Laura’s journey has been one of continuous growth and impact. Before her current role, she served as the Coordinator for Gifted Programming and the Arts at Nash-Rocky Mount Schools. Her influence has extended across North Carolina through her work as an AIG Regional Leader and Mentor with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
As the Advanced Academics Director for Durham Public Schools, Laura’s leadership has been transformational. She has been instrumental in designing and promoting rigorous programs that not only challenge advanced learners but also prioritize equity in access to these opportunities. Laura’s innovative initiatives, such as increasing participation of underserved populations in advanced programs and fostering AIG potential in early learners through Investigations in STEM, have led to measurable success. Under her guidance, Durham Public Schools earned recognition for significant advancements in Advanced Placement (AP) course access and performance, a success she proudly presented to the NC State Board of Education in December 2023.
Parents of Durham Public Schools have direct access to Laura, ensuring open and efficient communication without intermediaries. Laura is deeply committed to fostering academic excellence and values strong partnerships with parents to support student success. She provides clear, thoughtful, and responsive communication to address questions and concerns about advanced academic programs. Whether explaining the identification process, guiding parents on advocating for their child, or encouraging students to enroll in Advanced Placement courses, Laura consistently prioritizes a positive and supportive approach. She is readily available to parents, proactively reaching out when questions arise, and ensuring every family feels empowered to create an enriching academic journey for their child. Laura’s contributions are not limited to her district.
For six years, she served on the NCAGT Board of Directors, holding key roles such as Secretary, Treasurer and Conference Chair. Her advocacy work includes regular presentations to local and state education boards, ensuring gifted education remains a priority in decision-making. Her collaboration with Duke University, development of professional development modules, and statewide support for AIG programs reflect her dedication to advancing the field.
Beyond her accomplishments, Laura’s ability to inspire and mentor educators is unparalleled. She is a frequent presenter at esteemed events like the College Board Advanced Placement Annual Conference, where her sessions empower educators to better identify and support gifted learners. She fosters a culture of equity and excellence wherever she goes, leaving a lasting impact on students and educators alike. Laura’s leadership is defined by her creativity, inclusivity, and relentless pursuit of excellence in gifted education. She has not only enriched the lives of countless students but has also been a guiding force for educators across North Carolina. But what truly sets Laura apart is her unique ability to combine excellence with an approachable, hilarious personality. Known for her wit and outrageous yet true anecdotes (seriously, the strangest things always happen to her), she lightens even the heaviest of discussions. Laura’s storytelling not only entertains but creates an environment where everyone feels valued and engaged. Laura Parrott is a force of nature in gifted education, blending vision, equity, and unparalleled expertise with a personality that makes every encounter memorable. We can think of no one more deserving of the NCAGT Outstanding Administrator of the Gifted Award than Laura—a true leader with a big heart, a sharp wit, and a passion for making gifted education better for everyone.
Committees, Boards, Presentations:
NCAGT Board of Directors NCAGT Treasurer and Conference Chair NCAGT Presenter: Spring 2024 Office of Advanced Learning at the NC Department of Public Instruction: volunteer regional leader for Academically and/or Intellectually Gifted Programming in the North Central Region Office of Advanced Learning at the NC Department of Public Instruction Mentor Worked with the Governor’s School program as a local coordinator Appointed to the Governor’s School Board Presentation NC Board of Education: December 2023 NC Partnership College & Career Readiness Conference: March 2024 NC AIG Spring Institute: April 2024 College Board’s National Advanced Placement Conference (Presenter): July 2024 Collaborative for Student Success: October 2024 NC AP Partnership Leadership Colloquium: November 2024 Nash/Rocky Mount Schools Coordinator of Gifted Programming and The Arts Durham Public Schools Coordinator of Advanced Academics Durham Public Schools IB Director: 2024-Present Durham Public Schools Director of Advanced Academics: 2019-