Major Product/SVS:
Education, Special Education
Favorite Business Publication:
International Reading Association Publications; CARS+ Newsletter
Hobbies/Sports:
Reading, Collecting Christmas Tree Ornaments, Knight Figurines, Statues and Muffy VanderBear Collectibles, Traveling, Cooking, Baking
Education Degrees:
Master's Degree in Administration, Fresno Pacific University (1982); Master's Degree in Reading, Fresno Pacific University (1980); Bachelor's Degree in History, Minor in Political Science, Illinois State University (1971)
Affiliations Awards:
Inspirational Teacher Award (2007)
Highlight of career?:
The most gratifying aspect of her career is being able to watch her daughter succeed in her life.
Charity:
Doris Day Animal Foundation; American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; The Humane Society
Number Of Years In Profession:
30
Number Of Years In Current Position:
18
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her career success to her open-mindedness, her effort to remain on top of current research and her ability to be flexible with new ideas.
How Did They Get Involved In Profession:
She became involved in her profession after being inspired to teach special education by the birth of her daughter, who is deaf.
Extended Bio Profile:
Ms. Balske has worked with preschool through high school students, but finds teaching seventh and eighth grade the most enjoyable. She admits that teaching special education for 29 years is unusual, but she has enjoyed the work and takes pride in seeing her students succeed.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Offering Resource and Reading Education
Awards/Honors:
CANHC Award, Fresno Chapter (1985); Fresno County Outstanding Teacher of Special Education Students (1982)