Holly Pate

State:

Indiana

Testimonial from a participant

Dear Holly,
The personal growth that I’ve obtained this week has been phenomenal! I am always amazed at what I walk away with from these classes here. You have done a remarkable job, Holly. –T.S., Ft. Wayne, Indiana

PLS courses I teach:

• Teaching Through Learning Channels®
• Achieving Student Outcomes through Cooperative Learning®
• Building Communications and Teamwork in the Classroom™
• Differentiated Instruction for Today's Classrooom ™

Years with PLS:

Since 1994

Why I love teaching PLS courses:

I love that I have the opportunity to impact young people all over the state by impacting the teachers of Indiana. PLS has research-driven, practical, hands-on information that immediately affects the teachers who take these courses. I also love that PLS practices what it teaches.

Education:

• BA in Special Education from University of Evansville
• MA in Education from Indiana Wesleyan University

My Favorite Moment in teaching

I have many favorite moments, but one stands out in particular as an illustration of why I became a teacher. I had a student several years ago with many personal issues who was trying to get through high school and graduate. The student did graduate, but I was always concerned that the personal issues might hinder the student’s success as an adult. I recently saw this former student and was thrilled to know that the student was a successful spouse, parent, and contributor to society. The student said to me on this occasion, “Mrs. Pate, you always told me I could do it, and I did.” Every time I think of the adversity this student overcame, I know teaching is well worth the work.

Related experience, recognition, awards, etc.:

• I have received achievement awards through PLS. I was the winner of the prestigious Outstanding Leader Award for my cohort group with Indiana Wesleyan University. I am a member of Phi Delta Kappa.

What I love most about teaching:

I love the kids. Students with special needs are often underestimated. I love to help the students discover that they can do so much more than they or others thought. The smile of one young person’s face when he or she understands new information is awesome. All of my students are worth the effort and hard work I put into each day of teaching.

Teaching Experience

I started my career on a psychiatric unit for adolescents in April of 1989 as a special education teacher. I then moved to North High School in August of 1990 and have been teaching special needs students there ever since. I have completed 18 years at North High School teaching various courses. I am highly qualified by state standards in the areas of math and English.

Personal information:

My husband and I have been happily married since 1995. We have three lovely children that we enjoy spending time with.