Rachel L. Sparks

State:

Indiana

Testimonials from participants

Rachel is able to deliver material in a way I am able to use it immediately.

— J.C., Brazil, IN

She is a fantastic teacher with much to offer any student.

— L.S.R., Brazil, IN

Rachel is a very energetic and enthusiastic person. She makes the class fun.

— M.K., Terre Haute, IN

PLS courses I teach:

• Meaningful Activities to Generate Interesting Classrooms™
• Successful Teaching for Acceptance of Responsibility®

Years with PLS:

Since 2004

Why I love teaching PLS courses:

I am becoming a better teacher all the time. I learn just as much from other teachers taking the courses as they learn from me.

Education:

• B.S. in Science Education, Indiana State University
• M.S. in Science Education, Indiana State University

Teaching experience:

• High School Chemistry and Algebra for 20 years at Northview High School in Brazil, IN
• Adult Basic Education — all subjects for Vincennes University for 13 years.

Related experience, recognition, awards, etc.:

• Distinguished Service in Chemistry Education, Wabash Valley American Chemical Society, 2003
• Students qualifying to go to International Science Fair, 1988, 1991, 2000, 2001
• Students qualifying to go to State Science Fair, 1988, 1991, 1992, 1993, 2000, 2001
• Distinguished Service in Science Education, from Science and Engineering Foundation of Indiana, (SEFI), 2000
• Jackson Award for Outstanding School in Science Fair, Crane, IN, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002 and 2003
• Environmental Teacher of the Year, Clay County Water and Soil District, 1998
• Outstanding Science Teacher, SEFI, 1988, 1993
• Tribune Star All-Star Educator, 1992, 1994
• Indianapolis Star All-Star Educator, 1990

What I love most about teaching:

I knew I was destined to be a teacher when I was in 4th grade and helped others in math class. I loved the feeling of explaining something and another person understanding and then being able to do it independently. I still love that feeling of empowering others!

My favorite moment in teaching:

I can not single out one favorite moment, but I can tell you that I love getting up and going to my job everyday. Everyday brings new challenges and new rewards. Sometimes it is the light bulb turning on in a student's eyes, other times it's sharing their personal successes and even their failures then watching them grow from them.

Personal information:

I enjoy working with wood and hand make all Christmas presents for my family. I also enjoy scrapbooking, and watching my son play football, basketball and baseball.