Math Instructional Coach
CurrentDeborah Gilbert has worked in the Syracuse City School District for 16 years as a classroom teacher and, most recently, Instructional Coach. During this time, she has mentored new teachers, hosted practicum and student teachers and worked as a colleague with classroom teachers to support student learning. Debbie enjoys engaging in reflective conversation that supports teachers in the provision of effective instruction, lesson design, and best teaching practices. She has served as a teacher leader in many different capacities over the past 20 years. At the building level, she was the grade level representative on the School Leadership Team and Chief Building Representative at Meachem Elementary. In 2012, Debbie was on a cutting edge team of instructors writing the Math curriculum using the newly adopted Common Core Standards for the Syracuse City School District. While earning a CAS in Urban Teacher Leadership from LeMoyne College in 2013, Debbie was asked to participate as a member of the Teacher Incentive Fund Task force for the district to create career ladder opportunities for teacher leaders.Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” Eric Hoffer also states, "In times of change, the learners will inherit the world while the knowers remain well-prepared for a world that no longer exists" These two statements reflect Debbie’s belief that educators must choose to be a lifelong learners. She continues to participate in Collaborative Coaching, the Institute for Learning out of Pittsburg University and Network Team Institute training in Albany. She is an active member of the Syracuse Teacher Association and was nominated to represent STA at Regional and State-wide conferences. She continues to serve on the School Leadership Team and Academic Leadership Team at HW Smith and is committed to working with teachers and administration to support best practices in order to increase student achievement.
