Pam O'Risky

States:

Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois

Testimonial

I have learned so much from taking PLS classes from Pam O'Risky (especially computer classes) because she provides a classroom atmosphere that is "hands on" and "hands down" interesting, innovative and unique.

— Rhonda Moore, Mt. Vernon, Indiana

PLS Courses I Designed and Teach:

• Building Your Technology Education and Skills™
• Merging Education Goals and Interactive Multimedia Projects™

PLS Courses I Teach:

• Learning to Read: Beginning Reading Instruction™
• Successful Teaching for Acceptance of Responsibility®

Years with PLS:

Since 1998

Why I love teaching PLS courses:

My first PLS class opened my eyes to what teaching could be; interesting, stimulating, motivating, meaningful, and fun! Fifteen classes later I find myself still being motivated and learning. I want teachers to feel the excitement that is generated from meaningful courses. PLS certainly has many to offer!

Education:

• B. S. Degree 1976 from University of Southern Indiana
• M. S. Degree 1979 from Indiana State University
• 33 graduate hours above Master's from Indiana Wesleyan University

Teaching Experience:

This is my 27th year to teach and I have taught Kindergarten, First, Second, Fifth, and Sixth grades. I currently teach 6th grade Reading and Language Arts.

Related experience, recognition, awards, etc.:

• 1990 Apple "Computers in the Curriculum" honorable mention
• 1992 Krista McAuliffe Fellowship — Alternate
• 1992 Teacher of the Year nominee for IBM/ Technology and Learning
• 1992 Indiana Representative to the ESEA Chapter 2 Program Panorama in Washington, DC
• 1996 PLS Teacher Award
• 2002 Mt. Vernon Nominee for Hoosier Educator of the Year
• 2003 Mt. Vernon Nominee for Hoosier Educator of the Year

What I love most about teaching:

I love the challenge of motivating the unmotivated.

My favorite moment in teaching:

My favorite moment in teaching is when one student returns to tell you what a difference you made in their life. It only takes one for a teaching career to be successful!

Personal information:

My husband Mike and I have been married for 30 years. We live in the country with our son, Bryan, a student at University of Southern Indiana, 2 cats, and a black lab.