Region IV Teacher of the Year: Brandy Garrett

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MEET THE REGION IV TEACHER OF THE YEAR

BRANDY GARRETT
Millbrook Environmental Connections Magnet Elementary
Wake County Public School System

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Brandy Garrett, a dedicated educator at Millbrook Environmental Connections Magnet Elementary School in Wake County Public School System, as the Region IV Teacher of the Year. With more than 25 years in education—including 16 years in magnet schools—Garrett has built a career defined by innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to equity. Her work brings magnet themes to life through immersive, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and empower students as learners and leaders.

Garrett’s classroom is a model of authentic, theme-based learning where students engage deeply with the environment through real-world exploration. From outdoor investigations of wetlands and ecosystems to interdisciplinary projects that connect literacy, math, and science, her instruction makes learning meaningful and memorable. Signature experiences—like campus camping, environmental data collection, and sustainability projects—help students build both academic skills and a sense of responsibility for the world around them. These efforts not only increase engagement and achievement but also nurture empathy, curiosity, and environmental stewardship.

Equity and inclusion are central to Garrett’s teaching philosophy. She designs lessons with multiple entry points, ensuring every student can access rigorous content and contribute meaningfully. Through collaborative strategies like gallery walks, small-group seminars, and inquiry-based projects, students develop confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of belonging. Her classroom culture prioritizes social-emotional learning alongside academics, helping students build self-awareness and resilience. As one parent shared, Garrett “goes above and beyond in every aspect of teaching,” creating an environment where students are supported, challenged, and inspired every day.

Garrett’s impact extends far beyond her classroom through strong community partnerships and teacher leadership. She collaborates with organizations such as the Wake Soil and Water Conservation District to design authentic learning experiences—like hands-on pond ecosystem studies—that connect students to real-world science and career pathways. She also mentors new teachers, leads professional development, and supports schoolwide initiatives that strengthen magnet instruction and equity. Through her dedication, creativity, and collaborative spirit, Brandy Garrett exemplifies the transformative power of magnet education and is a truly deserving recipient of the Region IV Teacher of the Year honor.

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