Deborah Ratcliff

Deborah Ratcliff is an accomplished educational professional with over 25 years of experience driving instructional excellence, fostering inclusive learning environments, and providing strategic leadership. Her roles have showcased her talents for program oversight, staff development, and implementing initiatives to enhance student achievement and foster professional growth. As an Assistant Principal in the West Genesee School District, Deborah has demonstrated her ability to drive positive change through collaboration. She actively works to create positive, supportive learning environments for all students and staff. Concurrently, she co-facilitates the Strategic Planning Guiding Coalition, collaborating with committee members to establish processes, analyzing data to guide improvements, supporting goal and action plan development, and ensuring inclusive stakeholder input. Deborah also co-facilitates the District Mentoring Program, training mentors, designing year long goals, and supporting new teachers in areas like pedagogy and special education.

In her roles as Director of PTECH and Director of Curriculum and Professional Development, Deborah demonstrated resourcefulness in forging partnerships with local businesses, colleges, and community organizations. Under her guidance, instructional coaching and consulting services were optimized to identify student needs and implement targeted interventions. Committed to serving every learner, she sought to secure funding and partnerships to provide enhanced student support services.

Throughout her tenure, Deborah has earned distinction for collaborative leadership and professional development initiatives across all levels. Her commitment to educational excellence has been recognized through awards like the Readling Award and Linda Tinelli Sheive Award from SUNY Oswego in 2018. As a Project BLEND Scholarship recipient from 2016-2018 and current Adjunct Professor in the Educational Leadership Department at SUNY Oswego, she continues making valuable contributions, serving on the department's Program Advisory Team, and sharing insights as a presenter and panelist for multiple cohorts of leadership candidates.

Deborah Ratcliff is deeply dedicated to cultivating a culture of continuous learning among educational professionals and future leaders. She brings expertise as an adaptive leader skilled in strategic planning, curriculum design, staff mentorship, and creating equitable, engaging learning environments. Deborah’s collaborative approach encourages personal and professional growth while fostering a supportive community committed to nurturing the next generation of education visionaries.