Greetings and Salutations,

You are not going to believe this, but I'm one of those rare birds (lizard) that was born, bred and schooled on the desert. Born in Victorville while we lived in Grandview (no hospitals here back then!), I graduated from Barstow High, graduated Barstow College and San Bernardino Valley College. Went on to Park and Chapman Universities (while working and raising a family- so I get it!) My B.A. is in Social Psychology and my M.A. is in Education. I am an elementary school teacher for B.U.S.D. and I love it.

I live with my wonderful husband of 20 years. We had the 'Brady Bunch' syndrome, six children between us, all grown now. Five of the six have given us ten beautiful (smart) and talented grandchildren. Three of our six children live and work here in Barstow and are raising their own beautiful families. My daughter Nicki graduated from BCC in 2000.

Teaching the Drug & Alcohol courses is a joy for me. I have a very strong conviction on the subject and enjoy teaching students with my same passion. My convictions are even higher for this community because as I said, my family lives and works here as well and I want my grandchildren to be safe and happy on the streets of Barstow (and everywhere), don't you?

I am certified in Drug & Alcohol Counseling & Education. I have been in the field of addictions for over eighteen years. I currently hold a California Alcohol & Drug Educator and Counseling Certification (CAADE). I've worked in many different arenas of prevention, treatment and recovery. It's no secret that Drug & Alcohol Abuse are at epidemic proportions and has been from many years. Drug abuse is on the rise once again in High Schools and Jr. Highs across the country. There's a lot of work to be done in the fields of counseling & education of addictions, so be a part of the solution, be a part of a healthy community. One of my goals is to see BCC create and maintain an Anti-Drug Club on campus and to be a part of the Barstow Community Coalition against drug abuse in our community.

I believe education is the key to a better life. Online learning is an excellent way for the working adult with families to get their education. It does take discipline and dedication, as does anything worth while.

From my students I expect their best, honest effort, ask questions, spell & grammar-check, turn assignments in on time. And enjoy the journey. D. Faulkenberry