Ms. Deborah Hoffman

My Greatest Love is Helping Others

I am proud to serve the Jacksonville Commons Elementary team of educators, students and community as principal. I bring over 20 years of business management experience and nine years of experience as a school administrator.

Coming 350 degrees around the county, I began my teaching career at the middle school "next door", and later worked as an administrator at Northwoods Park Middle, Blue Creek Elementary, and Northwoods Elementary School of Technology & Innovation.

I began my career with Onslow County Schools in 1998 at Jacksonville Commons Middle School where I worked as the Director of the Support Our Students Program for at-risk youth. After several years working with the SOS Program, I transitioned to teaching business and computer classes at JCMS. While teaching, I earned certification through the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. As a life-long learner, I also earned my Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Campbell University and my school administration licensure through East Carolina University. 

Did I mention that I love learning?! I also recently completed my EdS in educational administration and supervision through ECU.

My greatest love is helping others. I can tell you that it stems from the influences of wonderful school employees who crossed my path. I grew up in Beulaville, NC (Duplin County) and graduated in 1980 from East Duplin High School. My favorite school employee was Ms. Esther Durham, our guidance counselor. She encouraged and supported me as I sought direction, focus and balance in my life. In fact, my work with at-risk kids and intensive studies on working with families of poverty stem from the impact she made on my life. 

I love quotes. The one that currently inspires me most:  "Find someone to be successful for. Raise their hopes. Rise to their needs."