Debra Hougland
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I grew up in Cordell and went to school here from Kindergarten through 12 grade. After graduation, I got my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary/Early Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. I started my teaching career in Muskogee, where I taught Kindergarten for 11 years. I then taught Second grade for 2 years in Clinton before coming to Cordell. This is my 11th year at Cordell. Since coming to Cordell, I have taught T-1 and First grade, which is what I am currently teaching. I have been married for 31 years and we have a daughter, who is a Sophomore at SWOSU.
We’re about two months into the school year, how has it been so far?
The first two months of this school year have gone pretty smoothly. There have still been a few adjustments here and there with the pandemic still going on, but, overall, I feel like we are doing well. It’s great that we are able to be in the classroom and not have to do virtual learning.
Compared to this time last year, with having to deal with the midst of the pandemic, how has the start of this year been? Is it easier, about what you expected, harder?
Compared to last year, the start of this school year has been good. At first, I was a little worried that we might have to return to virtual learning due to the rise in Covid cases. The kids are very adaptable to most situations, so they will feed off of the energy put off around them. If you project that things are OK, then they feel like it’s OK, too.
What are some things you’re looking forward to for this school year?
Some of the things I’m looking forward to this school year are getting to do more things together as a school, such as classes playing together at recess, going to the movies at Christmas time, and getting to attend a Stephen Fite concert in January. It’s great for the kids to get to be more socially involved with each other.
What is it that got you to want to become a teacher?
As a child, I think I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I would line my dolls and stuffed animals up and “teach” them what I had learned in school that day, using my chalkboard easel, books, and papers. I also had an aunt who was learning disabled. I would help her write down what she wanted written and I would read to her. She inspired me to want to help others learn.
Teaching elementary students over junior high or high school is vastly different, what made you decide that specifically teaching elementary was for you?
I chose to teach at the elementary level because the younger children are so excited about learning. They absorb as much information as you can give them and love knowing new things. The “aha” moments are priceless when they’ve worked so hard. They are so proud of themselves when they finally understand what we’re talking about.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is my students. We spend so much time together that we become like a family each year. It’s the best feeling when they come back, later on, to visit me and let me know how they are doing as they grow up.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by the students I work with each day. When I come to school and see their little faces and I hear them tell me about things that excite them, it makes me happy to know that they want to share their special moments with me. I am also inspired by the amazing people I work with each day.
What have been some notable moments during your time teaching?
During my 24 years as a classroom teacher, I have been awarded numerous grants for various projects, ranging from science projects, classroom technology, a classroom library, and literacy projects.
When you’re not teaching, how do you like to spend your time?
I spend a lot of extra time in my classroom, but when I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs. I also like to write short stories, shop online, and watch a few different TV shows.