For more than two decades, Debra Geiser has been a familiar and comforting presence at LHS. As a teacher aide for 23 years, she has touched the lives of countless students, staff members, and families, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Geiser was constantly surrounded by the energy of New York City. At just 18 years old, she landed her first job in the World Trade Center, working as a typist clerk for a foreign insurance company. Despite her early exposure to the business world, she always had a passion for working with children. “I always enjoyed children in general, really just working with children,” Geiser explained.
It was that passion that led Geiser to where she is now in her career. When she joined the LHS faculty, she found more than just a job; she found a comforting place where her love for kids and teaching could blossom.
In her role, Geiser is responsible for providing constant support to students throughout the school day. She supervises students’ arrival and dismissal, ensuring a safe and structured environment. She also aids in keeping her students focused and redirecting students during academic lessons. Additionally, Geiser oversees job sites in the Career Development Program (CDP), and assists with lunch in the cafeteria. Geiser also chaperones the Challenger sports games during the Challenger basketball and soccer seasons. Finally, outside of the building, she helps on field trips and with travel training, and she has also worked at Summer Playground for 14 years.
Geiser’s work ethic and positive attitude have left a lasting impact on her fellow employees. Lauren LaManque, school psychologist, said, “Mrs. Geiser has taught me the power of positivity–how maintaining a positive attitude around others can lead to wonderful outcomes. Her example has had a lasting impact on me both professionally and personally.”
Geiser reflected on her career at LHS, but one memory in particular stood out: “My proudest moment at LHS is watching all the students whom I have worked with become who they are.” Above all else, Geiser will cherish the opportunity to work with children. When asked about her favorite memories from her tenure at LHS, Geiser said, “Going on job sites with the students and going on field trips.”
CDP and special education teacher Annie McKenna has revered her years alongside Geiser. “[She is] a gem to work with and a true inspiration to me. I was a teacher for many years before coming into the CDP program, so she really helped me a lot. I am going to miss her dearly,” McKenna shared.
Throughout her career, Geiser has served as a mentor for McKenna. “Mrs. Geiser has taught me to find enjoyment in every day; even the small things you do can make a big difference in students’ lives,” McKenna explained. LaManque described working with Geiser as a truly refreshing experience. “She is one of the most caring individuals I have ever met, consistently showing genuine compassion for her students, staff, and the entire community,” LaManque commented.
In her years working with Geiser, McKenna has made many memories, but she does have a favorite. “My favorite memory from working with Mrs. Geiser is all the holiday parties that we have thrown over the years. Mrs. Geiser would go around on the weekends and after school to different stores to buy all the decorations and goodies we needed for the party. She really went beyond so that we could make special memories for the students,” McKenna reflected. “One of my favorite memories was in the CDP classroom. I found great comfort in her kind heart and calming presence. I also cherished the time we spent together during Challenger,” LaManque added.
Geiser reflected on how her time at LHS has impacted her personal growth: “It has taught me to be understanding and accepting of everyone who is different from me.” Geiser also expressed her plans for retirement. “Normally, I worked [at] Summer Playground, but being that I am retiring, I won’t be doing Summer Playground anymore,” Geiser explained. In the next two years, Geiser and her husband plan to move to Florida.
Varsity boys’ basketball head coach Brian Donaldson described Geiser as “One of the most caring individuals I have ever worked with. She wears many hats in her role as classroom aide with the CDP.” Donaldson added, “She has been a part of CDP since its inception and has helped foster an environment where the students feel safe and motivated to do their best.”
When asked to describe what it was like to have Geiser as part of the staff, Principal Matthew Sarosy said, “Mrs. Geiser has been an integral part of our CDP program. She advocates for her students while being able to hold them to the highest standards. She is going to be sorely missed.” Sarosy also spoke about Geiser’s advocacy: “I’ve always been so impressed by Mrs. Geiser’s advocacy. She is a champion for the inclusion of all students.”
