May 30, 2007

WASHINGTON -- Ripon High School social studies teacher Rick Kelm has been chosen to participate in the 2007 House Fellows Program, reports Rep. Tom Petri.

"This opportunity, sponsored by the Historian of the House, is designed to help educators improve their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the 'People's House,' which they can then transmit to their students and fellow teachers upon returning home," Petri said. "From July 30 through August 3, Mr. Kelm will participate in an intensive workshop in Washington on the history and practices of the House of Representatives."

Kelm commented, "I am very happy to have been chosen to participate in the House Fellows Program. This a great opportunity to learn more about our government and the House of Representatives through a hands-on approach. The insight I gain from this experience will be of great benefit to my classroom."

Kelm is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. He has taught Senior Social Studies and Contemporary Issues and coached sports in Omro. In Ripon, Kelm has taught American History, Advanced Placement United States History, and Young Adult classes, and was named Wisconsin Football Coach of the Year in 2003.

He is currently working on his masters degree in educational leadership at Marian College in Fond du Lac.