Debra Klein
Contributor Chapter:
Assume Goodness—Give Grace
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
Caring can be easy when circumstances are easy. Courageous Kindness asks something more of us when circumstances are painful, confusing, or uncomfortable and when judgment might come more naturally than compassion.
In this story, Debra Klein shares what happened when an elementary school community faced just such a moment. Confronted with one woman's unimaginable heartbreak, Debra and her staff made two deliberate choices: assume goodness and give grace. What followed shows us what CARE can look like when a community chooses to surround a hurting person with compassion rather than judgment.
Author Bio:
With a career spanning over three decades, Debra Klein’s professional journey is rooted in the belief that everyone thrives in safe environments that cultivate curiosity and joy. Beginning in the classroom in 1990, she taught every grade from kindergarten through 5th grade before stepping into school leadership as principal of Emerson Elementary School and guiding the community to a U.S. Department of Education National Blue-Ribbon Award.
A Fulbright Scholar, published author, and recipient of the 2025 INSPRA Distinguished Service in Leadership Award, Debra serves as a college lecturer, play researcher, and mentor for new principals through the DuPage County Regional Office of Education. Currently serving for the second time as an interim principal, she brings stability to schools in transition while helping fellow leaders design kind, safe, and playful learning spaces where everyone has the freedom to do their best work.
Connect with Debra:
Instagram: @principals_official
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-klein-nolongerdekleining/
