SURF CITY, N.C. — Deborah Farmer, a seasoned 6th-grade Math teacher at Surf City Middle, has been honored as the March Mentor of the Month for her unwavering dedication to teaching and mentoring within the Pender County school district.
With 13 years of teaching experience, Farmer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Throughout her tenure at Surf City Middle, she has collaborated with numerous dedicated educators, leaving a lasting impact on the school community. Her commitment to excellence was recognized when she was named Teacher of the Year for Surf City Middle during the 2019-2020 academic year.
A proud graduate of Appalachian State University, Farmer holds a degree in Elementary Education with a certification in middle school math. Education runs deep in her family, as she was inspired by her mother, a first-generation college graduate from Appalachian State Teachers College, who enjoyed a distinguished 32-year teaching career in Cleveland County, NC.
North Carolina holds a special place in Farmer's heart, having grown up on a farm in western NC before pursuing her education at Appalachian State University. Since 2004, Surf City has been her home, where she shares a fulfilling life with her husband, whom she met during their student days at App State. This year marks their 34th wedding anniversary, and they take pride in their three children, all alumni of Appalachian State University.
Beyond the classroom, Farmer finds joy in various pursuits, including working in her garden, hiking, traveling, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. She particularly enjoys canning vegetables from her summer garden and nurturing her collection of plants on her back porch. Her faith in Jesus serves as a guiding light, providing her with strength, peace, and inspiration.
Reflecting on her childhood, Farmer fondly remembers spending time with her father on the family farm, fostering a deep connection to nature and a love for exploration. Together, they would wander through freshly plowed fields, searching for arrowheads and other artifacts, creating cherished memories that have shaped her life.
As the March Mentor of the Month, Deborah Farmer's commitment to mentorship and education exemplifies the values of Surf City Middle and the broader Pender County school district.
