In loving memory of Ms. Ondek's beloved class pet: a pumpkin

Debra the Pumpkin,

September 2025-January 2026

Debra the Pumpkin was the class pet for Ashley Ondek's English classroom during the second and third quarter of the 2025-2026 school year. Debra was loved by many inside and outside of her residing classroom. She stole the hearts of students and teachers, and her passing moved many to speak. Below are quotes from students and staff who felt urged to share their love for Debra.

"Debra, beloved class pet, passed peacefully into compost after months of faithful desk-sitting. She brightened lessons and taught us not to name call or question the importance of a pet pumpkin. Will you forever be in our hearts, thank you for your service Debra." -Owen Whittford

"In loving memory of Debra the Pumpkin, whose orange glow once graced our halls with a quiet curiosity far beyond her dirt-laden origins. Taken from us too soon by the unforgiving passage of time, Debra stood as long as she could against the restless decay, only wishing her best for the many diligent and kind students spread across Liberty's campus. Though she now returns to the earth, her legacy lingers in every curious inquiry and the thirst for knowledge that still invigorates every person her warmth extended to. Rest in pulp, Debra, our wisdom knew no bounds." -Aiden Torgersen

"Debra was known for her quiet strength and excellent desk attendance. She survived weeks of analysis and affection. Debra leaves behind a classroom forever changed by her presence, perseverance, and undeniable charm. Debra is survived by her classmates, whose days were brighter because she sat among them." -Rebecca Vincent

"We gather here to honor Debra,

Once bright with autumn’s glow.

She sat in quiet dignity,

And marked the season’s flow.

Time passed, as it must for all,

And Debra met her end.

Her purpose served, her moment done,

She now returns again—

To soil, to seed, to cycles old,

Where nothing’s lost or gone.

Rest well, dear Debra. You were loved,

And your memory carries on."

-Tory Eliot