I received a Bachelors of Science degree in Communications (Broadcasting, Public Relations, TV/Radio Media) from the University of North Alabama as well as a Masters of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Alabama A&M University.

I have been blessed with the ability to gain an abundance of experience in the field of Speech-Language Pathology for the past 12 years. I have had the honor to have worked as a K-8/preschool speech therapist for Birmingham City Schools, Preschool speech therapist for Walker County Schools (Jasper, Al), K-5/Preschool speech therapist for Douglas County Schools (Douglasville, GA), SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility) speech therapist for the geriatric population in the Birmingham and surrounding areas, as well as worked directly with individuals with severe Autism and behavior disorders at Glenwood Inc. 

I am truly excited to be a part of the Panther Nation here at J.S. Abrams Elementary School! I have the pleasure to say that I am the preschool speech therapist and I provide services to our students aged 3-5 out in out community. I am truly passionate about being a speech therapist and it makes my heart so happy to be able to make a positive impact in each child and family's lives that I get the opportunity to interact with! My beautiful family consist of my wonderful husband and 2 amazing boys that I call my "Lovebugs". I enjoy making memories with my family, traveling, cooking, and going to church! 

If you have any questions about your child and his/her speech/language needs, please feel free to contact me on any of the information listed below;

Email: deffinger@bessk12.org

Office#: 432-3134

Main Office#: 432-3100 

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to partner with you in helping you children learn and grow!

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why"- Mark Twain