Debra Smith
Fremont County School District
Fort Washakie, WY USA
"Take chances when you can but don’t be afraid to say no when your plate is full."
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Debra's work combines: Education, Government, and Teaching / Mentoring
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
It was challenging to balance my personal connections in the community with my professional role as superintendent. I had to navigate the delicate balance between personal relationships and professional responsibilities, particularly with family members on the school board and being seen as "little Debbie" rather than Superintendent Smith. I overcame this by emphasizing professionalism in my role, maintaining clear boundaries, and fostering open communication.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Child & Family Studies-Early Childhood Education
University of Wyoming
Graduate Degree
Curriculum & Instruction
University of Wyoming
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I was born in Thermopolis, Wyoming, and raised in Fort Washakie.
2.
Inspired by my mother's work at our tribal Head Start program, I earned my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
3.
I decided to specialize in special education and went back to school for my master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in early childhood special education.
4.
I’d been working for our tribal Head Start program for about 10 years and then transitioned to work for our early intervention program, which serves children with disabilities from birth to age five.
5.
With the early intervention program, I worked as a preschool teacher, case manager, and family services provider.
6.
I eventually stepped into a state role with the Wyoming Department of Education, overseeing special education services for the state.
7.
After about three years, I took a job as a SPED director for a neighboring school district before the SPED director position for my home school district opened up.
8.
I now serve as the superintendent of Fremont County School District and am guided by a commitment to community, culture, and educational excellence.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Family:
You're just 'Little Debbie,' not Superintendent Smith.
How I responded:
It was challenging to balance my personal connections in the community with my professional role as superintendent. I had to navigate the delicate balance between personal relationships and professional responsibilities, particularly with family members on the school board and being seen as "little Debbie" rather than Superintendent Smith. I overcame this by emphasizing professionalism in my role, maintaining clear boundaries, and fostering open communication.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
Being of light skin and Native descent, I felt the pressure of not fitting into either the Native or non-Native groups. It toughened me and gave a unique perspective beneficial in my role as superintendent, where I deal with a diverse student body.