Pam, a 30 year employee in the field of education, has been with A Grade Ahead for nearly 7 years. Pam is an assessor, lead teacher, and favorite of all the students and employees here at A Grade Ahead. Pam’s experience, passion, and welcoming personality make her a great mentor and role model to all other teachers. We sat down with Pam and asked her a few questions so that you all could get to know her a little better. Enjoy!
What is your favorite part of working for A Grade Ahead?
I have been in the educational field for almost thirty years and A Grade Ahead is one of the best Enrichment programs that I have encountered. I absolutely love the program, the small group instruction, and of course, the wonderful people that I get to work with.
What was your favorite subject in school and why?
My favorite subject in school was History. History helps us understand societies, its people, and its culture. As the world becomes a more global society, it is important to make connections, and history helps us do this. History teaches us about the human experience and helps to become more informed as citizens.
What would you like to do most in the future? (Either professionally or personally)
Professionally, I would like to continue my education. Take classes in areas that interest me, but are outside of my comfort zone.
What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I love to travel. Recently, I’ve been traveling areas of the United States with my sisters. It’s fun seeing the beauty of our country; eventually, I hope to travel to other parts of the world…Ireland is at the top of my list!
What historical figure do you think is a good role model for kids? Why?
Helen Keller is someone who I think is a fantastic role model for youth. After an illness as a child, she was left deaf, blind, and mute. With the help of Anne Sullivan, she became a lecturer, author, and advocate. She fought for social and political issues, such as women’s rights and was a co-founder of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Helen Keller is an example of how someone can overcome adversity with determination and hard work. Seeing the future through the eyes of our children gives me hope for a better world. Helen Keller once said, “It is not possible for civilization to flow backwards while there is youth in the world. Youth may be headstrong, but it will advance it allotted length.”
Describe one teacher or educational experience that changed your life.
The teacher that changed my life was my grandmother. She taught Kindergarten until she was 78 years old and loved every minute of it. She couldn’t wait to get up in the morning to teach “her kids,” and it is because of her that I decided to be and educator.
What is your favorite educational or motivational quote?
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Helen Keller
Did we forget anything? What else about you would our readers want to know?
Something most people do not know about me is my love of old films. If I had not decided to become an educator, I would have become a film historian.
Author: Nate Baltzer, Teacher at A Grade Ahead
