LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Jayne Brandon

Position: Seventh Grade Science Teacher
School: Kingwood Middle School
School District: Humble Independent School District
City, State: Kingwood, TX

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Music that Describes Jayne

Jayne Brandon was nominated by a member of the community, Kathleen Sison. 

Ms. Brandon is a remarkable seventh-grade science teacher at Kingwood Middle School in Humble Independent School District, Texas, celebrating her 20th year of teaching in 2024. With dual certification in Special Education and Science, she specializes in working with at-risk students in the general education setting. Her dedication to hands-on learning and discovery is evident in her classroom approach. She consistently seeks opportunities to enhance her students' experiences through purchasing supplies or securing donations via Donors Choose.

Her commitment extends beyond the classroom; she actively participates in extracurricular activities, from driving vans to Science Olympiad contests to camping in the Grand Tetons as a teacher-ranger. Ms. Brandon's commitment to continuous learning is exemplary. She frequently travels to broaden her knowledge and improve her teaching methods, even incorporating research trips that involve her students. In 2016, Ms. Brandon was recognized as a Jason Learning Argonaut, participating in authentic research on sea turtles in the Bahamas. Her enthusiasm inspired a student to apply and be selected for the same program, showcasing her ability to motivate and encourage her students' scientific curiosity.

Her impact on her students is profound and long-lasting. She shares her personal stories of vulnerability, struggle, and coping with social stressors to elicit empathy and care from her students and to create a safe and supportive environment where each student feels comfortable sharing their academic and personal challenges. Her compassion and understanding have helped struggling students develop a love for science and overcome personal difficulties.

Beyond academics, she is deeply involved in the Boy Scouts of America program as a Scout leader, instilling values such as trustworthiness, loyalty, and kindness in her students. She regularly attends her students' extracurricular events, capturing their performances with her photography skills and providing unwavering support.

Her innovative approach to teaching includes creative labs and projects, such as roller-coaster designs, marble runs, and erupting volcanos, which engage and excite her students about science. During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Brandon went above and beyond by participating in the Adopt a [High School] Senior program, supporting the older brother of a former student through to graduation during a time when students felt unseen and disenfranchised. Her connection with students extends far beyond their time in her classroom, with many returning years later to express their gratitude and share their successes. 

"Jayne Brandon embodies the spirit of a LifeChanger, consistently demonstrating excellence, positive influence, and leadership in her role as an educator. Her tireless efforts to inspire, support, and nurture her students make her an outstanding candidate for National Life Group's LifeChanger of the Year Award," said Sison.

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Comments (3)

Melissa Balcom Posted over a year ago

My son was truly blessed to have Mrs. Jayne Brandon as his 7th-grade teacher. Her passion for education and her ability to inspire young minds left an indelible mark on him during a pivotal time in his life. He was fortunate enough to not only learn from her in the classroom, but also to join her on an incredible journey to the Bahamas as part of the Jason Argonaut group. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allowed him to explore the wonders of marine life, particularly sea turtles, igniting a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Mrs. Brandon's dedication and encouragement extended far beyond the classroom, and we are forever grateful for the profound impact she has had on his education and personal growth.

Jenn Parks Posted over a year ago

Ms. Brandon had both of my kids in her classes. My son is ADHD and could be a handful but Ms. Brandon saw his love for science and nurtured it. My son was a Boy Scout and she knew this, when he would struggle in class she reminded him of The Scout Law and held him accountable to it. She herself shows in her actions how she lives by The Scout Law. Now. Freshman at Sam Houston- he is a Forensic Chemistry Major. If she had just brushed him off as a trouble child he may not be where he is today. She is a common topic when I speak with kids from KMS who have had her, from her current students- up to Seniors at KPark. They all speak fondly of her and each have a story. The thing they all say is how much they loved her class and how much she impacted their lives. We are a better community because of her.

Trinity Curl Posted over a year ago

My first time meetings Ms. Brandon was my first day at Kingwood Middle School. She was my 7th grade science teacher. I had recently moved in the middle of the school year and was really nervous. I did not know anyone yet as it was my first day. I vividly remember Ms. Brandon standing in front of the class announcing our class assignment. “Today we will be making babies with our partners!” Scared half to death at the thought of making a baby, Ms. Brandon whipped out a paper with a little monster on it. I was so relieved once I saw it was a paper activity. I later told Ms. Brandon about my first day in her class and laugh about it. She was my favorite science teacher in school! She had such an impact on my life and I’m grateful to have had her as a teacher.