Debra was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, where she developed a deep appreciation for language and education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, a foundation that would shape her career and lead her to new and exciting experiences abroad.
With a passion for language acquisition, Debra moved to Spain, where she lived and taught English for many years. Immersing herself in a new culture, she gained firsthand insight into the challenges and rewards of learning a second language, an experience that later influenced her teaching philosophy.
In 2000, Debra relocated to Texas and continued her journey in education. She pursued a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, equipping herself with the skills to make a broader impact in the field. She dedicated her career to working in public schools as a specialist in English as a Second Language (ESL). In this role, she collaborated with teachers from kindergarten to high school, guiding them in the latest methodologies for teaching English to non-English speakers. Her expertise helped shape classroom instruction, ensuring that students of all backgrounds had access to quality language education.
Beyond her professional life, Debra enjoys reading, music, and sailing—activities that reflect her curiosity, creativity, and love for adventure. In the classroom, she upholds a philosophy of promoting lifelong learning and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones. She believes that true growth happens when individuals challenge themselves to try something new, a mindset she instills in both educators and students alike.
Debra’s dedication to education and language learning continues to inspire those around her, making a lasting impact on the field of ESL and beyond.