Brandi Downs

• Position: Math teacher
• Degrees & Alma Mater: Math degree 
• Years at Caney Creek: 24 
• Years Teaching: 24

How would other people describe you?

Enthusiastic, a little extra and little bit OCD

Was there a career you wanted to pursue OR pursued before teaching?

Always wanted to be a teacher since second grade

Tell us about how you got into teaching?

I had some really good teachers growing up, and I loved it. So I went into that profession. 

What do you do outside of school for fun? Why? 

We hunt and fish, because I’m married to that, I like to bake, and we take lots of vacations and trips.   

When people get to know you, what are they most surprised to learn about you? 

I love to bake, but I’m not a big fan of cooking. People know that I love to bake, but I think they’re surprised to know that I don’t like to just sit around and cook.  

Tell us the story about what you are most proud of yourself for?

I am most proud of myself for being the first of my family to graduate college and to get a professional career that required a degree.

Who is someone you are thankful for and why?

My child, because I was told early on that I would never have children, so he is quite the blessing.  

What advice would you give to someone pursuing a career similar to yours?

Make sure you’re not doing it for the money. Make sure you’re doing it for the heart of it, because the reward is not the payback.  

What do you hope to be remembered for? 

For having a classroom where people felt comfortable and safe.

What’s on your bucket list?

I want to go to New Zealand, I want to go to the Northern Lights, and take my child on an African Safari.

Favorites

• Food: Mexican food
• Song: “When You Say Nothing At all” By Keith Whitley 
• Movie or TV Show: “Friends”
• Book: “Just Because” By Matthew McConaughey