Bristol Tennessee City Schools is proud to recognize Olivia DeBruin as the District Teacher of the Year for grades 5–8. Known for her empathy and authenticity, Ms. DeBruin has built a classroom environment where growth matters more than perfection and every child knows they belong.
Currently teaching seventh grade, Ms. DeBruin did not originally set out to become an educator. She was a biology major in college, but her career plans took an unexpected turn when she became a mother. As she poured herself into raising her daughter, buying books, exploring science together, and intentionally nurturing her curiosity, she discovered something about herself.
“I realized how much I loved teaching kids,” she said. “Especially helping them understand the world around them.”
Ms. DeBruin’s approach to teaching is deeply personal. As a child, she navigated school with ADHD during a time when accommodations were limited. While she earned strong grades, she often faced consequences for behaviors she struggled to control. Those experiences now shape her mission in the classroom.
“I want to be the teacher who sees those kids,” she explains. “The ones who may struggle or feel different. They’re still capable. They’re still brilliant. They just may need to learn in a different way.”
Her classroom reflects that belief. She emphasizes effort over letter grades and growth over comparison. Students know they are not expected to be perfect.
“If their best is a C, we’ll take it,” she said. “I just want their best.”
When people hear that she teaches middle school, they often respond with surprise. But Ms. DeBruin embraces this stage of life wholeheartedly.
“It can be an awkward time,” she said with a laugh. “They’re figuring out who they are. I want them to feel safe. I want them to know they’ll make it through, and we can have fun while we’re here.”
She delights in watching students come out of their shells, form friendships, and experience those “lightbulb moments” when learning clicks. She sees her role as both cheerleader and guide, helping students build confidence during a season filled with change.
Throughout her career, Ms. DeBruin has taught multiple grade levels and moved between teams, sometimes teaching the same students more than once. While transitions can be challenging, she treasures the opportunity to watch students grow over time.
“You get close with them and their families,” she said. “It feels like an extension of your own family.”
Her commitment extends beyond the school day. She attends sporting events, dance recitals, and other performances to support her students in the activities where they shine. For the past five years, she has attended the annual Bristol Dance Academy recital to cheer on her students. Showing up, she believes, makes a difference.
“I want them to know someone is always in their corner.”
If she could offer one message to fellow educators, it would be this: be real.
“Let students see that you’re human,” she said. “Own your mistakes. Show them you’re trying your best, and that’s all you’re asking from them, too.”
Outside of school, Ms. DeBruin enjoys spending time with her family, working out, reading science-based nonfiction, and recently learning the art of sourdough baking.
Ms. DeBruin’s recognition as the District Teacher of the Year for grades 5–8 is a testament to the powerful difference one caring, consistent adult can make. Through empathy, authenticity, and a steadfast belief in her students, she continues to shape not only academic growth, but lives.
Note: This article is the first in a series of three of BTCS District Teachers of the Year.