Hello! I am Brandon Elrod. I grew up here in Hoover, volunteering and working a lot at my school and church. While I was finishing my accounting degree, I recognized that I belong in education instead. After graduating, I went to work at Deer Valley Elementary as an Aide during COVID until entering Samford's secondary education masters program, where I had the opportunity to student teach math in Hoover and Vestavia City Schools. In my free time, I enjoy mountain biking, hiking, gardening, cooking, and otherwise working with my hands.
In college, I spent my summers working in camps; one was like a miniature school with class time, specials, PE, etc. At the end of that camp, we had a meeting with the director to reflect on our summer. That is when it became clear to me that teaching is a distinct calling and one of mine. You can enjoy something for a time, but it doesn't mean it's the right place for you in the long-term. Also, you cannot base your career simply on what you're good at without taking into account who you are. So, right then, I took a leap of faith and commitment to become a teacher. Looking back at my childhood and knowing my gifts, it's quite obvious.
Being around younger people reminds us of what matters most in life, which they always find a way to enjoy. They are present, authentic, have an open heart, and have a free spirit. It is tremendously rewarding to step up and follow through with kids in facilitating their personal growth and independence. Also, I just like explaining things and helping people.
After I went to Deer Valley Elementary, where my mom was a legendary secretary, I went to Bumpus for a very long few months and Simmons for a short 4 years, and then Hoover High for 4 years.
In middle school, I took two years of band and two years of choir. I was a corner back and receiver on the football team. I also was a Boy Scout. In high school, I was in the chamber and concert choirs, Finance Academy, Beta Alpha Psi, Mu Aphla Theta, and took Latin. Later in high school, I worked in after-school care and joined the new MTB team.
How old are you?
-1.5 ( x - 62 ) + 1 = 13
Now you try: choose a number (such as your age, birthday, jersey number, etc.) and create your own multistep algebraic expression or equation that equals that number. It's harder than it looks!
Are you married?
Nope! If you happen to know a woman around my age who is wholesome, supportive, vibrant, has traditional values, and is in good heath, let me know. I'm handy and great with kids!
How much money do you make?
See Hoover City School's Payroll/Benefits page: https://www.hoovercityschools.net/56977_3