Debra is a retired educator from the Camden City Public School District, where she served for 34 years. During her tenure there, Debra taught Kindergarten through Eighth grade. She also served as Grade Level Chairperson, and teacher leader. Debra trained and mentored several new and struggling educators. Her classroom was often used as a model when implementing District Initiatives. Debra also designed and implemented several schoolwide reading and writing initiatives, summer reading programs, parent trainings, and Literacy support groups.
Dr. Cassidy-Hammond is a graduate of Rowan University: Glassboro, NJ (BA), Marygrove College: Detroit, Michigan (MEd.), and Rutgers the State University: New Jersey (MPA). Her academic career is peppered with numerous honors, awards, and academic achievements. She has been a constant on the Academic Deans List, and is a recognized member of the Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society. Besides this, Dr. Cassidy recently completed her Doctorate Degree.
Dr. Cassidy-Hammond believes that everyone has the right to be motivated, trained, directed and developed in the quest to achieve their full potential. She believes all children can learn when afforded the opportunity to do so. Educators must support learners by encouraging healthy attitudes toward the learning experience. Debra believes it is imperative for educators to recognize, and take every effort to utilize the diverse and unique learning styles during instruction. She has taught, mentored, and supported her learners to achieve success throughout the years.
Her personal educational motto: Our Children, Our Future, Empower Them for Success!