Debbie Gifford
Philanthropy Work
Stockton,CA
41
years of professional experience
After over 20 years in education and another 20 years serving my country, I am enjoying blending these passions together on a more personal level-writing my memoirs and helping others to do so. This has developed into advocating for veterans, especially women veterans of previous generations by encouraging and helping them share their stories. I find this extremely rewarding and hope to expand into other areas of helping others write.
Work History
Writing Facilitator/Coach/Mentor/Advocate
11 Months- Facilitate weekly memoir writing group empowering women veterans to share their stories both in writing and verbally
- Write and edit speeches, both formal and informal, to share unique women veteran perspectives
- Advocate for all people to write as a means of processing feelings
- Advocate for all people to share their stories
English Teacher, High School
15 Years 8 Months- Modeled and coached students into becoming life-long learners
- Worked with students to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills
- Engaged students in problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration
- Provided guidance in obtaining internships, community service, and other programs and opportunities both in and outside the school
- Allowed and expected students to become self-aware and able to analyze their own growth
- Served as a leader and strong team member among my department, academy, site, and district.
CH47D Helicopter Flight Engineer/Mechanic
16 Years 7 Months- Flew as a crew member with over 1000 flight hours
- Ensured passenger and equipment safety
- Conducted preflights, postflights, and scheduled maintanance
- Engaged in troubleshooting aircraft systems
- Participated in search and rescue, fire suppression, humanitarian, defense, and a multitude of others missions
- Regularly participated in training including sling load, disaster relief, and night vision googles
English Teacher, Middle School
5 Years 5 Months- Taught and mentored students
- Develop relevant and rigorous curriculum
- Assessed, reflected, and adapted lessons to aim for success with all students
- Engaged in other aspects of professional teaching
- Ran schoolwide AVID program
- Co chaired English Department
Voice Interceptor-Russian
4 Years- Top Secret Clearance
- Quickfix EH-1H Helicopter crewmember
- Operated intercepting and jamming equipment prior to the Berlin Wall being dismantled
Education
Master of Science - Technology Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology/Teaching Certification
Skills
Planning and Organization
Facilitation and Collaboration
Communication
Problem-solving and Analysis
Reflection
Timeline
Writing Facilitator/Coach/Mentor/Advocate
Philanthropy Work
09.2025 - CurrentRead More
English Teacher, High School
Stockton Unified School District
09.2009 - 05.2025Read More
English Teacher, Middle School
Stockton Unified School District
07.2000 - 12.2005Read More
CH47D Helicopter Flight Engineer/Mechanic
Army National Guard
07.1989 - 02.2006Read More
Voice Interceptor-Russian
United States Army
07.1985 - 07.1989Read More
Western Governors University
Master of Science from Technology Education
Read More
St. Martin's University
Bachelor of Science from Psychology/Teaching Certification
Read More