Reflections and Testimonials

"Thank you for your liberating approach to writing!” – Susannah Funnell, educator   

"I am continually in awe of the work Deb Studebaker does with the fourth grade students at The Willows Community School. She has a remarkable ability to illuminate young minds—whether guiding fourth students through a linear point of view or inviting them into more abstract, imaginative ways of thinking. 

Her lessons are intentional and thoughtfully designed, introducing students to voices such as Pablo Neruda and Wisława Szymborska, as well as the work of contemporary artists, while empowering children to craft their own meaningful writing.

Deb is gentle, engaging, and deeply attuned to her students. She delights in their creativity and consistently elevates their work, making each child feel seen, valued, and capable. While her students are naturally talented, Deb has an extraordinary gift for drawing that talent out of every learner, including those who may not yet recognize their own potential. She is a true gem.   -  Wendy Tullio, Educational Specialist | Educational Therapy Certificate Candidate

“I love what you’ve brought to The Willows’ poetry program. Children begin in Kindergarten and quickly see themselves as poets. Each year, students further develop their voice. They hone their ability to express their feelings and observations about the world with increasing facility and swell with pride at what they have created.” - Terri Baird, Assistant Head of School for Student Support, The Willows Community School

"The Middle School Open Mic this year was so spectacular and emblematic of the growth of the poetry program. Not just the number of students and their level of engagement but also the range of participants:. From a 6th grader new to the school to veteran 8th grade poets to high school alumni returning for the event...Deb has cultivated such a great community of artists." - Doug Klier, Middle School Director, The Willows Community School 

You are incredible. How do you ever get youngsters to write so convincingly, so from the heart? I am in awe of your abilities and dedication.” – Sylvia Rogers, Principal (retired), Canfield Elementary School

“Charlotte has LOVED working with you on the poetry and recites her beautiful poems to me on the way home from school and sometimes I feel like I need to PULL over because I am so moved by them. Deb, you make magic happen at the Willows… Thanks for sharing your love of words with these writers. You have a very special gift and our school and children have been lucky to be on the receiving end of it.”  

–  Martha Browning, parent

 “My family recently moved from Denmark to Los Angeles. This meant that my son started second grade not only in a new country, but in a new language! Learning poetry with you has made it easier for him to start writing. He just needed to find the words, and poetry has opened up the writing process for him. Thank you!” – Charlotte Kirk, parent