About Mrs. Cline
Debra Lynn Gentry Cline
I am beginning my thirty-second year of service as a teacher in the White Oak Public Schools. My first assignment was teaching third grade. After three years, I was given the opportunity to teach sixth grade Language Arts. Twelve years later, I moved into the seventh grade Language Arts position. Because my teaching involves two STAAR tests, it is a tremendous challenge, but I truly enjoy the students and the subject matter. Above all, teaching is a “calling,” and I am willing and ready to answer that call.
It is indeed an honor and privilege to teach your child this year. As an alumni of White Oak High School, I am proud to be part of White Oak’s tradition of pride and excellence. I have high expectations for your child and will encourage and support his/her endeavors, both academically and in extra-curricular activities.
Much to my teachers’ dismay, I did not enter college upon graduating from high school but jumped right into marriage and the workforce. Ten years later, I was ready and eager to pursue a teaching career and attended Kilgore College, UT Tyler, and SFA (Master of Education degree). My degrees are in education with a specialization in English. I am also G/T certified.
My husband, John, is also a White Oak alumni. We have been married forty-five years and have lived most of that time in the community of White Oak. We are blessed with two wonderful children, both White Oak Exes. Jason manages a restaurant, and Jayne (now Mrs. Galloway) teaches Reading Recovery at White Oak Primary School. The absolute joys of my life are my two granddaughters, Graycen and Avery. Graycen is a senior at Longview High School. She is a four-year letterman in choir and also enjoys singing praise music and playing the guitar. Avery is a sixth grade student at White Oak Middle School this year. She loves cheering on the L’il Necks, swimming, and playing on iPad.
My church and faith family are very important to me. For over twenty-five years, I have played the piano at the White Oak United Methodist Church. I serve as Education Director and Assistant Worship Director. My hobbies include organizing and designing for special events, shopping (especially for others), and spending time with family and friends.
I am passionate about Language Arts and could be called a “grammar geek.” I have considerable training with New Jersey Writing Project in Texas and The Writing Academy. Last year I attended training presented by Janet Coleman of MJ etc. (well-know and respected writing specialist). “Really read” is what I stress to my students. Let’s read aloud and let’s read fluently (Texas Adolescent Literacy Assessment training). Reading novels together is my favorite way to show my love for reading and challenge the students to dig deeply into the text of exceptional authors.
As education moves well into the 21st Century, I realize it is essential that teachers keep abreast of the latest educational resources and teaching strategies allowing for a more student-centered classroom with higher levels of thinking, collaboration, and the productive use of technology. One thing for sure–education never stays the same–always new theologies and challenges.
Parents, thank you again for the privilege of teaching your child. Students, I’m looking forward to a great year! Please do not hesitate to email or call if you have any questions.
Mrs. Cline
