Role

Debbie leads the teaching staff in the Palmerston North Papaioea Regional Education Centre. She is responsible for the pastoral care of students and connects with the local ECE community. Debbie is also a lecturer in the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) programme.

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Education Background

Debbie has been involved in teaching and education for over 20 years at ECE, primary and tertiary levels, and in Workplace training. She joined Te Rito Maioha in 2006.

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Research Background

Debbie’s Master’s studies focused on teachers and parents’ perceptions of teaching children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder. Her passion is for inclusive education, and she has presented at numerous Disability and Inclusion related conferences in this subject.

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Teaching Interests

Debbie believes in life-long learning and encourages this by supporting people of all ages and backgrounds in the learning environment. Seeing everyone as competent and confident ensures that everyone succeeds in a diverse world. She believes in building strong, reciprocal relationships with others to ensure culturally responsive practice is upheld.

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Recent Publications

Rickard, D. M. (2020, June). Working with associate teachers. Tango Rima! Take 5, 5, 1-3.