After nearly four decades in the classroom, Debra Eszler is closing a chapter that has defined much of her life—39 years of teaching, including the past 10 in the Dakotas at Brentwood Adventist Christian School.
Eszler, who became a Seventh-day Adventist at age 15, said her path into education was clear from the start. “I used to play school at home,” she recalled. “I’d keep my papers from school and pass them out to my ‘pupils.’” From that early beginning, she committed her career to Adventist education.
Over the years, Eszler has taught in a wide range of settings, from one-room schoolhouses to multi-teacher schools, though much of her career has been spent in multi-grade classrooms. She said she especially values the “family feeling” of smaller schools, where older students help younger ones and learning happens across grade levels.
Her greatest joy in teaching has remained consistent: “Watching a child grasp a concept—that ‘aha’ moment,” she said. “It’s really rewarding.” She also found joy in the everyday moments—playing games like soccer and Foursquare, reading stories aloud, and seeing students fully engaged in learning.
Eszler has witnessed significant changes in education over her career, particularly with the rise of technology. From mimeograph machines to online gradebooks and classroom programs, she has adapted while maintaining a balance between digital tools and traditional learning. “I don’t like to do away with traditional learning,” she said. “They still need to know how to read a book.”
Beyond academics, Eszler emphasized the importance of character and faith in her classroom. She described herself as a firm but caring teacher, striving to prepare students for life while showing them love. “Life is hard,” she said. “We have to help our kids learn to live in this world as well as heaven.” Her goal, she added, has always been that students leave knowing they are loved and knowing Christ more personally.
Her own faith has shaped that approach. “I want them to know Christ,” she said. “I hope it’s made me more kind and loving.” She also values the opportunities Adventist education provides for spiritual growth, such as student-led worships and the ability to integrate faith throughout the day.
Reflecting on her career, Eszler said teaching has been more than a profession. “It’s kind of been my life,” she said. “It’s just a part of me.” In retirement, Eszler plans to spend more time with her three grandchildren, travel and focus on her health after a busy final year. She is also looking forward to rediscovering hobbies and spending more time with her husband, who has supported her throughout her career.
To those considering Adventist education, Eszler offered encouragement. She believes strongly in its value—not only academically, but spiritually. “You get to talk about Jesus,” she said. “You get to sing worship songs… I believe strongly in our Adventist education system.”
As she steps away from the classroom, Eszler leaves behind a legacy shaped by consistency, care and commitment to helping students grow both academically and spiritually—one lesson, one conversation, and one “aha” moment at a time.
