After graduating in 1961 from California State University, San Jose, with a B.A. in elementary Education, Susan J. Kovalik began her teaching career as a sixth grade elementary teacher followed by a science teacher in a K-6 elementary school of 1,200 and a GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) teacher in five schools. In 1984, Susan was awarded the California Gifted and Talented Teacher of the Year. During this time, she also found time to share her love for experiential learning as the community leader of a multi-faceted 4-H club with 50 families and 37 projects.