Kyla Brand

Kyla Brand has been hired as a 2-3 teacher at Sierra Foothill Charter School (SFCS). Originally from Meadow Vista, a small mountain town in the foothills below Tahoe, she moved to the Santa Cruz area to complete her education. Brand’s teaching experience spans pre-K through 5th grade.

Having an academic background in child psychology and behavior has provided her insight into how children learn and develop. Her passion for music (she is a flutist) and the arts, along with a love of the outdoors, promise a well-rounded and engaging classroom.

Brand said she enjoys the challenge of keeping lessons fun and creative and is excited to help craft the SFCS curriculum.

“I look forward to teaching science as ‘on-going research’ to help my students expand their conceptual knowledge,” Brand said. “I also love getting kids outside and learning.”

She is looking forward to living in the community and teaching in a school that encourages creativity and emphasizes deeper learning through meaningful approaches, such as placed-based education.



Principal Travis Blagg is thrilled with Brand and three additional new teacher hires, stating the individuals possess the right combination of skills, experience, and enthusiasm necessary for the school to hit the ground running in August 2012. In addition, all three teachers hold California multiple subject teaching credentials.