Social Studies Teacher
Truman State University (2005-2007, 2012-2015)
Jackson High School (Class of 2005)
Masters of Art in Education (Truman State University – May 2015)
Bachelor of Science in History (Truman State University – Dec. 2013)
AP Government and Politics Exam Grader – 2019
AP Government and Politics Conference – 2019 and 2017
AP US Courts Integration and the Three Branches of Government – 2018
AP United States History Conference – 2015
AP World History Conference – 2015
4th year teaching at Sikeston High School.
Currently teaching AP US Government and CP US Government.
Previously taught American History and World History.
Active duty US Army from 2008 – 2011 including tours in Afghanistan and Korea.
Married in 2016 to Emily Balsman.
I have a son named Benjamin who was born in 2018.
My parents live in Jackson, MO. I also have two brothers. My older brother lives with his wife and son in Dallas, TX and my younger brother lives with his wife in Sikeston, MO.
FAQs About Mr. Balsman
Here are the answers to questions that Mr. Balsman gets asked a lot.
Where did you go to school? Truman State University
Bachelor of Science in History – 2013
Master of Arts in Education – 2015
Do you use Twitter and can I follow you?
Yes I do use Twitter. My name is @SHS_Mr_Balsman
Are you married?
Yes. I married Emily July 23rd, 2016.
Do you have kids?
Yes. I have a son named Benjamin. He was born in 2018. 
Do you have pets?
Yes. I have a dog named Ollie. He is pretty great.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to play cards and go hiking and exploring with my wife. I enjoy trap shooting and fishing with my friends. I am an avid supporter of the STL Cardinals and wish I could get up to Busch Stadium more often to go to games. I am learning to enjoy hockey and the STL Blues. I love to read books on historical topics. Currently reading the Killing series by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard. This series looks at historical events and examines them from alternative perspectives. The books primarily tell the story of the person/event and outlines the major events that eventually led to their destruction.
What is your favorite amendment?
Yes, it is true, I do have a favorite amendment (and yes I understand that is nerdy). My favorite amendment is the 9th Amendment because it protects rights that cannot be expressed in writing and other rights that people could not even imagine needing in the late 1700s.
Why did you decide to teach?
I enjoy helping people realize their true potential. I was blessed with great teachers in high school that encouraged me to continue learning. Although I did struggle in college my first time, I was able to return after my service in the Army and earn my degree. I like to help people realize that just because you are struggling doesn’t mean that you should give up. Failure is part of life, it is how you get up and continue on that defines who you are.
