Kinniburgh closes book on storied 39-year school career

Tears filled Debbie Kinniburgh’s eyes as she thought about what she would miss most about the job she has held for 38 years at Carbon County School District No. 2 as a Language Pathologist.

Her colleagues and the children are what she will miss most.

“It’s been an easy job because of the support I have had from my colleagues, my administrators, my special ed directors and the families of my kids,” Kinniburgh said. “They made it an easy journey.”

The biggest change Kinniburgh has seen over the 39 years she has been working as a speech therapist and language pathologist is the paperwork.

It was her first job right out of college.

She was initially called a speech therapist which focused on articulation and vocabulary. Over the years it has evolved, Kinniburgh said. The position has always involved more thant articulation and vocabulary – it includes working with children who have language difficulties, process difficulties, auditory attention skills, grammar structure and voice to name a few.

The paperwork consisted of one-half sheet of paper. She had to make two copies of the report. Now, the reports average around 13 pages, Kinniburgh said. Doing the necessary paperwork ensures that the children’s rights are protected, Kinniburgh explained.

The paperwork also ensures the children are receiving the appropriate amount of services in the appropriate setting without limiting their interaction and not restricting their placement.

Everything contained in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) is protected by law, so the child’s educational progress can only be discussed with those who are involved in the student’s education.

For that reason, Kinniburgh cannot brag about her successes.

What has been fun for her is watching the students go through the entire education process. “It’s been an advantage for me, but a disadvantage for them, because they can’t get rid of me,” said Kinniburgh with a laugh.

In retirement, Kinniburgh is looking forward to not having to do all the paperwork.

She is looking forward to spending more time with her family, traveling and hiding in the sewing room working on quilts.

The hardest part of leaving is not working with the children every day.

Wednesday night, the cafeteria at the Saratoga Elementary School filled with parents, friends, family and colleagues to wish her well in retirement.