Deborah A. Preach taught 10 years in an urban elementary school in Phoenix, Arizona. She earned her master's of education degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University in 2005. Professor Preach additionally earned reading specialist, early childhood, and SEI endorsements. She began teaching literacy courses as adjunct faculty elsewhere and then joined the faculty at Arizona State University in 2007. Professor Preach is a clinical assistant professor and teaches at all levels within the college, primarily graduate level courses in the master's and Arizona Certification (MAC) and Induction, Master of Education and Arizona Certification (InMAC) programs.
Professor Preach's research focuses on supporting and fostering the development of alternatively certified first-year teachers working in urban areas. She developed a professional development model through her work in the leadership and innovation program. She has held several leadership positions within the college including course coordinator, elementary program coordinator, and MAC and InMAC coordinator. Professor Preach is the assistant division director of the division of teacher preparation. She works with a team dedicated to providing support to students and faculty as they design systems to promote student learning and success.