Anyone who has come across Dr. Debbie Brownrigg in any way can immediately sense her kindness, intelligence, and love for what she does. As an educator, not only does she genuinely enjoy teaching, she is a life long learner. Dr. Brownrigg has a passion for both sides of education, as instructor and student, even stating, “Learning is fun.”
Dr. Brownrigg grew up locally here in Orlando, Florida. From a young age, her love for school
shined especially through reading, writing, English, and Spanish. She also enjoyed being a part of school activities like the Drill Team, which incorporates synchronized elements of dance, marching, and military drill. However, she recalls that it was her English teachers that left the biggest impact on her. Dr. Brownrigg stated that they, “Encouraged us as readers and writers and introduced us to great works of literature from across the world,” helping spark a love for learning that she carried with her throughout her life.
Family has played a very significant role in Dr. Brownrigg’s life. Adopted as a baby and raised as
an only child, her family never failed to show her love and support. Growing up, Dr. Brownrigg’s father faced health challenges. As a result, she spent some days in hospitals, and most days she was with her grandparents and extended family. Her grandparents passed on to her their love for baking, gardening, music, storytelling, and dance. These experiences sparked her curiosity and creativity.
Books and stories also significantly influenced Dr. Brownrigg’s life. Trips to the library were filled with books like Little Woman, and Little House sparked her love for reading. She explained that these stories and, “The idea of a house full of siblings felt magical.” Soon, literature and storytelling became a happy and natural part of Dr. Brownrigg’s life.
Her natural passion carried Dr. Brownrigg down a very impressive academic road. She earned
a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English with a minor in Spanish from the University of Florida, followed by a Master’s Degree in English Education from the University of Central Florida, and finally a Master’s Degree in Guidance Counseling from the University of North Florida. Later, after her first son went to college, she earned her Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of West Florida, where she specialized in the process of how students write and how educators can support them. Looking back on her academic journey, Dr. Brownrigg has reflected that, “Our learning grows as we share ideas and build confidence to try new writing skills.” Even after her impressive list of accomplishments in education, Dr. Brownrigg believes that learning never stops. “The more we learn, the more we see that there is to learn,” she stated, as she described herself as a lifelong learner with a passion for the classroom as both the student and teacher.
Dr. Brownrigg felt most connected to teaching English since it combines everything she grew up loving: reading, writing, language, and helping others. “Teaching English combines all of these elements,” she reflected, helping her fulfill her passion. Family still remains the heart of Dr. Brownrigg’s life. She has been married to her husband for the last 32 years. Together they raised two children who are now both adults. Parenting has deeply affected both her life and her teaching. After raising her children, she’s learned that, “Perfection isn’t even a goal — mistakes offer learning opportunities,” altering her mindset on how she teaches.
Dr. Brownrigg joined the Lake Highland family in 2024 and sees it as, “A true family and community.” Everyday without fail, her passion for learning and care for students enters Lake Highland’s classroom. Through her kindness, curiosity, and dedication, Dr. Brownrigg shows that learning lasts forever, and that a great teacher never stops being a student.
sion for education shines in her as both a student and a teacher. (Dr. Brownrigg)
