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Brandon Messner, Learning Specialist
Brandon Messner, Learning Specialist
by Alicia Moore
Brandon Messner has been working for Springfield Public Schools since 2010, teaching high school at both Glendale and Parkview before joining the Learning Development team in 2017. His strengths include a deep knowledge of instructional practices as well as an upbeat, encouraging demeanor.
Megan Colton, an early-career teacher at Portland, describes Brandon’s support by saying, “He has always been willing to sit down with me at any time to discuss any of my educational and professional needs. He is always there to listen, as well as get my mind thinking through something in a way I may not have before.” His instructional expertise and supportive presence have also benefited the faculty at Pleasant View, according to principal Kim Yeary: “He’s been instrumental in teaching PV faculty about Conscious Discipline. Brandon offers to help every time I see him, has a smile on his face, and has been professional, even in challenging situations.”
Brandon’s ability to increase capacity in those he serves is partly due to his optimistic stance. Tiffany Taylor, who teaches ELA at Parkview High School, voices appreciation for Brandon’s insistence that she celebrate her own professional growth. “When I feel like I am seeing success in my classroom, he doesn’t let me get by without congratulating myself.”
Like many teachers throughout SPS, Brandon was living and breathing the mission of increasing capacity long before he became a learning specialist. Jennifer Barnes taught alongside Brandon as a math teacher at Parkview and now works with him in his current role. She sums up his impact on her like this: “Brandon has helped me to grow into the teacher I am today, and I am truly thankful for his positive influence.”
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