About the Author

Deborah Ryzewski, from Valparaiso, Indiana, has both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Education. Deborah is a physical education teacher at Highland High School, in Highland, Indiana. She also works for the Duneland Health and Wellness Institute of St. Anthony's Hospital in Chesterton, Indiana, teaching fitness and yoga classes. Deborah was also the director of the Valparaiso Dance Connection for eight years where she choreographed intricate storyline dance recitals.

Deborah was named to the 2003-04 volume of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and was recently nominated again, this time for the 2004-05 edition. Only five percent of the nation's teachers are ever nominated once, and less than two percent of teachers are included multiple times. The only students invited to submit nominations are those who themselves have been distinguished by being recognized for excellence in either Who's Who Among American High School Students, Who's Who Among American High School Students--Sports Edition, or The National Dean's List.

The synergy of her dance, fitness, yoga and education backgrounds, coupled with her intense love for making children healthy and strong, brought Deborah to write The Yoga ABC's with Alvin, Beatrice and Conner.

Deborah's mantra is "children moving... our shining future."

If you would like Mrs. Ryzewski to visit your school or group, please .

"My class had the opportunity to meet Mrs. Ryzewski when she visited our school as a special guest.

The children enthusiastically participated as Mrs. Ryzewski led the class through the alphabet of yoga poses. She is truly a professional who demonstrates a sincere interest in health and fitness."

-- Elaine Krause, Jackson Elementary School

Valparaiso, Indiana