Teacher of the Year

I believe every student deserves to feel seen, valued, and capable of success. As a teacher, I strive to create a classroom where students feel safe enough to take risks, curious enough to ask questions, and confident enough to find their voice. I am honored to be Teacher of the Year and grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate alongside my students each day.

Brandi Hornsby Joiner is an accomplished educator and instructional leader with more than 20 years of experience serving students, families, and educators across diverse K–12 educational settings. She currently serves as the Exceptional Education Lead Teacher and MTSS Specialist at Cascade Elementary School, where she provides leadership in exceptional education programming, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), instructional practices, data-driven decision-making, and the implementation of high-quality interventions and specially designed instruction.

Throughout her career, Ms. Joiner has served in a variety of instructional and leadership capacities, including special education teacher, program evaluator, department chair, instructional coach with a focus on specially designed instruction, IEP team facilitator, and Secondary Testing Coordinator. Her experience spans elementary, middle, and high school settings and includes extensive work with students with autism, cognitive disabilities, behavioral and emotional needs, and other diverse learning needs. She is particularly passionate about strengthening inclusive practices, building educator capacity, and developing effective systems of academic and behavioral support that promote success for all learners.

Ms. Joiner earned an Education Specialist in Special Education from the University of West Georgia, a Master of Science in Special Education from Florida International University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Georgia State University. Additionally, she completed Tier I Educational Leadership certification through Kennesaw State University. Her professional credentials include a Georgia Clear Renewable Teaching Certificate, Dyslexia Endorsement, certifications in both Adaptive and General Curriculum, and additional specialized training in assessment, behavior, and student support.

At the heart of Ms. Joiner’s work is a steadfast commitment to ensuring that every student receives the instruction, intervention, and support necessary to reach their fullest potential. She believes meaningful and sustainable school improvement is built through strong relationships, collaborative problem-solving, thoughtful use of data, evidence-based practices, and high expectations for every learner. Ms. Joiner is proud to serve the Cascade Elementary School community and remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive school environment where students are supported, families are valued, educators are empowered, and every child has the opportunity to thrive.