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2010 Arkansas Rural Teacher of the Year

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas honored Ginny Chambliss, a physical science, chemistry and physics teacher at Rison High School, as the 2010 winner of the Arkansas Rural Teacher of the Year award.

Chambliss is known for being an inspiration to her students and connecting with them through science. Rison Principal Brian Brown said, "Ginny has a way of connecting with her students, of getting them excited about science. Due to her excitement about the subject matter, student interest in the science disciplines has increased."

Chambliss states that, "Learning is all about sharing knowledge – all kinds," and credits sixth-grade teacher Lula Mae Cathey with inspiring her to become a teacher. Chambliss prefers to teach at rural schools because of the close connections she can make with her students – knowing their families, backgrounds and siblings – and the strong sense of community.

"The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas are long-time supporters of education in the communities we serve throughout the state," said Carmie Henry, vice president of governmental affairs for the cooperatives. "It is an honor to recognize an outstanding teacher like Ginny Chambliss."

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas sponsor this award every year as part of its commitment to education. Winners receive recognition, a plaque and a check for $1,000. Chambliss was selected by a committee of educators based on her answers to questions involving the following categories: professional biography, education, history, professional development, community involvement, philosophy of teaching, education issues and trends, and the teaching profession.