Meet the Trainers
Debra talks about her experience as a trainer with Committee for Children.
Favorite Quote
I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.
—Edith Ann [Lily Tomlin]
Bio
Education in academic, corporate, community, and clinical settings has been a central theme in Debra’s life for over two decades. She has gained experience nationally and internationally as an elementary teacher and working with at-risk youth. She presently is responsible for Committee for Children program implementation consultation, cultural adaptation, and delivery of various program training models.
Ask the Trainer
What do you like most about what you do?
I love traveling, meeting new people, and feeling like I make a difference in the world. To be able to see different areas of country is fun, and meeting educators who are committed to helping kids and making a better world for them is very reassuring. It restores my hope that by teaching children empathy, problem solving, and emotion management—those important social skills—we can look to the future and see the world as a better and safer place.
What do you feel is the most important aspect of the SECOND STEP program?
Teaching and reinforcing the skills is really important, but I think more important than that is modeling. Children watch everything we do, from how we eat our cereal to the way we interact with our family and friends. Then they make their choices based on what they see. Modeling has to be the most important aspect of the program.
Who was your favorite teacher in school, and why?
Mrs. Basenbauch. After almost three decades, I still remember her name. She was an advanced placement English teacher at my high school. She had very high expectations and clearly communicated them. She expected no less than the best from each and every student, as she did from herself, and was always there to help each student succeed. Some students thought she expected too much, but I was glad that she cared enough to ensure that we received a good education.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
If I had to pick a dessert, my first choice would not be ice cream. I would have an éclair or a small piece of the best chocolate available. But if I were to have ice cream, I would have rocky road. I like the contrast of cold and creamy chocolate ice cream, crunchy nuts, and soft, chewy marshmallows. It is the coming together of all things good.
If you could have dinner with anyone—living or dead—who would it be, and why?
Not to get religious or anything, but I would want to have dinner with God, the Source, the Light, the Omni-Present, the Universal—whatever you choose to call the “power that be.” If I had a choice of anyone, why not go to the top? Second choice would be the Dalai Lama.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be, and why?
After traveling through Eastern Africa on an overland safari and observing the wildlife, I think I would like to be an impala. They are sleek and have beautiful markings. Not only can they move swiftly across the savannah, but they also do a movement that made me think they were doing a happy dance.
Of all the cities you’ve lived in, which was your favorite, and why?
I have enjoyed all the places I have lived for one reason or another. But the city that captured my heart was Iquitos, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where I lived for two years. The people, the culture, and the wonderment of nature captured my soul. There is not one day that passes that a part of me doesn’t yearn to return.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Grow up? I have no intention of growing up. I don’t want to grow up. I want to hold onto the curiosity and discovery of a child. I want to just sit back, enjoy the ride, and see where the roller coaster takes me. It is always a surprise!
What is your favorite way to spend your leisure time?
Travel is my passion. So when I have vacation time I travel to countries and cultures outside of the U.S. But I prefer to spend my day-to-day leisure time with close friends. Give me an evening with people who love to laugh, a big pizza with all the extras and my life is very full.
