Mrs. Amanda Burdette, the Institute’s December Teacher of the Month, has spent twenty-one years in the classroom and is now in her ninth year at Brashier Middle College Charter High School. She currently teaches English I, English II Honors, and Teacher Cadets. Her interest in education began with her own experience as a student who had to work hard to develop foundational skills. Through participating in her school’s band program, she learned consistency and discipline, and by eighth grade, she realized she wanted to work with teenagers who might share similar challenges.
She has taught English I for her entire career and enjoys guiding students through classic literature while helping them make meaningful connections from the stories to their lives. This year marks her first time teaching Teacher Cadets, a class she has quickly grown to love. The program allows students to explore a wide range of roles in education, and she values the opportunity to help them think through potential career paths.
One of Mrs. Burdette’s most significant professional experiences occurred when she arranged for Holocaust survivor and author Marion Blumenthal Lazan to speak to the student body at Brashier. Students listened closely as Lazan shared her story and emphasized the importance of tolerance. The event reinforced Mrs. Burdette’s belief in maintaining strong professional relationships, since the visit was made possible through a colleague’s support.
Her teaching philosophy has evolved throughout her career. She once centered her work almost entirely on content, but over time, she has learned the importance of building strong relationships with students. She still prioritizes skills such as communication, collaboration, and independent learning, using strategies like writing galleries, world café, and Socratic seminars to keep students engaged. In her honors class, she has recently integrated project-based learning, leading students through collaborative work, reflection, and the creation of thematic photo stories.
Mrs. Burdette appreciates the small, community-focused environment of a charter school. The size of Brashier allows teachers to get to know students well and encourages strong connections with families and the broader community. She values the shared focus on student needs and the sense of belonging that comes with it.
She also credits her parents for supporting her path into education and thanks her husband for his patience during long stretches of grading and planning. Mrs. Burdette feels fortunate to be part of the Brashier community and remains committed to supporting students as they grow academically and personally.
Thank you, Mrs. Burdette, for your continued dedication to serving the children of South Carolina!
