Teacher Profile: Deb Neal
A founding member of DaVinci Academy, former middle school science teacher Deb Neal now serves as Assistant Director and STEM coordinator.
Many new students to DaVinci don’t know who Mrs. Deborah “Deb” Neal is, but they happen to always see her walking down the hallway with a smile, during passing time.
She has forever been a part of the DaVinci family, since she was one of the founding members. She started working as the middle school science teacher in 2009, when 7th and 8th grades became an addition to the school. In 2013, she got promoted to Assistant Director. Right now, her responsibilities are STEM coordinator, meaning she gives out student grants and is in charge of the YMCA program, the head of the science department (also in charge of Science Fair), facility manager and a community outreach person.
She liked the idea of creating our school because she likes the focus on science and the arts, and the fact we are a charter school, which provides students with lots more opportunities for success. She does miss teaching, but likes knowing her current job affects a larger population.
Growing up, she went to a science-oriented magnet high school. After that, she went to get her Associate’s degree in Recreation and Land Management at SUNY Cobleskill in New York. After completing the program, she worked for the government and as a park ranger, which was her dream job when growing up.
Later, she went to Utah State University to get her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. After that, she worked at Saint Joseph Catholic High School, located right here in Ogden.
During her personal time, she likes doing anything and everything outdoors, since she is a science fanatic. Her most favorite and popular activities include camping, boating, skiing and fishing.
She couldn’t imagine life not having been a science teacher. If she had to choose another career, it would be owning a bed and breakfast because she enjoys cooking.
