Chippewa Valley Names Ojibwa's Pam Gold Elementary Teacher of the Year

Already known to friends and co-workers as “The Idea Lady,” second-grade teacher, Pam Gold, now adds Chippewa Valley Schools’ 2012 Elementary Teacher of the Year to her list of titles.

A 15-year veteran of the district, Gold has taught at , and Ojibwa elementary schools.

“Pam’s love of teaching and commitment to excellence in everything she does makes her an outstanding educator,” said Superintendent Ron Roberts. “She is a tireless worker, exemplary educator (who) works on weekends and her attitude is absolutely wonderful. She is very deserving of this.”

As the creator of Math Game Fridays and literacy-themed homework bags for students and their families, Gold’s “natural ability to create quality lessons or projects for students in the spur of the moment” has led coworkers to nickname her, “The Idea Lady.”

“Her continuous excitement over new resources, projects or school-wide initiatives helps get peers involved, and she willingly gives up time before, during and after school to support students, colleagues and school activities,” wrote nominating co-workers. “In her classroom, every student is treated as an individual with a different academic, social and emotional need and (she) develops a warm, positive report with everyone.”

Ojibwa Principal John Rose described Gold as “one of those teachers you wish every one of your teachers was like,” noting her eagerness to learn, willingness to help and ability to tackle any challenge with tact and charisma.

That she was nominated, let alone selected as the district’s elementary teacher of the year, was both "an honor and blessing" for Gold.

“I have a lot of people to thank for my career,” she said. “Without great administrators and colleagues, it makes your job very hard and I have had the best.”

Gold was present at Monday's school board meeting to accept her award. A video tribute to Gold and the and middle school "Teacher of the Year" honorees is currently running on the district's cable channel.