Joseph B.
Skills
Effective instruction, Experienced educator, Lesson planning/delivery, Curriculum development/implementation, Differentiated instruction, Assessment/evaluation, Classroom management, Engaging learning environment, Critical thinking/Problem-solving, Student support/development, Behavior knowledge/practices, Special education support, Mentorship/leadership development, Educational technology passion, Interactive technology/21st-century skills, Technologically savvy, Google Certified Educator Level 2, Online collaboration/Assistive technology proficiency, Conference presenter (MACUL, miGoogle), Technology training/support, Effective leader, Proven leadership track record, Collaborative leadership, Operations management, Staff management, Financial management, Data-driven decision making, Problem-solving, Initiative/Proactiveness, Goal setting/Motivation, Specific initiative leadership, Relationship building, Communication skills, Empathy/Compassion, Positive attitude/Influence ,Strong work ethic/Dedication, Adaptability/Flexibility, Continuous improvement/Lifelong learning, Teamwork/Collaboration, Trustworthiness, Student advocacy/Student-centered
About
As an educator, I am Joseph Brown, a dedicated professional with a profound commitment to educational excellence and student success. My philosophy centers on fostering innovative and student-centered learning environments, believing that every child possesses unique potential waiting to be unlocked. I strive to be an effective leader who inspires, educates, and empowers students to thrive in an ever-changing world.
My educational journey reflects a strong commitment to continuous growth and expertise. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a Mathematics major (K-8) from Baker College, graduating in 2017. Furthering my academic pursuits, I earned three Master's degrees from Western Governors University: a Master of Education in Learning and Technology in 2021, a Master of Science in Educational Leadership (K-12 certified) in 2023, and a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (Secondary) in 2025. I also hold an active Michigan Standard Teaching Certificate with endorsements in K-8 and 7-12 Mathematics and K-5 All Subjects, and a Michigan School Administrator Certificate for Elementary & Secondary Admin K-12, both valid until 2028. My certifications also include Google Certified Educator Level 2.
My professional experience is diverse and impactful. Since 2018, I have served as a Math Educator at Pierce Middle School in the Waterford School District, teaching grades 6th-8th, including Math Lab, Algebra, and Geometry. In this role, I plan and deliver interactive math lessons, implement curriculum aligned with state and national standards, and conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress. I am particularly skilled in differentiated instruction, utilizing varied resources, technology, and strategies to ensure every learner can access and engage with the curriculum. Beyond academics, I emphasize the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills by incorporating real-world applications into my lessons. I also teach credit recovery math for grades 6th-12th at Children’s Village Juvenile Detention Center during summers, and currently serve as an Adjunct Mathematics Instructor for online undergraduate algebra courses at Mission Veterinary Partners. My teaching career began as a Math Educator at the Michigan Math and Science Academy from 2017-2018, and I have provided extensive math tutoring through college levels from 2012-2023.
Students consistently describe me as the "best teacher" who makes math "make sense" and fun to learn, creating a comfortable and safe learning environment where they feel valued, heard, and important. I actively provide extensive before- and after-school tutoring to help students overcome challenges and build confidence, and I lead the Pierce after-school tutoring program. My dedication extends beyond the classroom; I am a trusted adult whom students feel comfortable approaching with personal concerns, and I genuinely care about their well-being. My ability to build strong teacher-student and student-student relationships is highly respected and appreciated.
My leadership experience spans various sectors. I currently serve as the Athletic Director at Pierce Middle School, overseeing operations including budgeting, scheduling, staffing, and facility management for all sports. My involvement in Pierce athletics demonstrates my commitment to the holistic development of students. Prior to my teaching career, I gained valuable management experience as an Assistant Store Manager at McDonald's for 15 years, where I managed up to 26 employees and oversaw all aspects of store operations, including financial management and inventory control. I also owned and operated Brown’s Martial Arts for 11 years, where I hired and managed instructors and developed curriculum. These roles have honed my strong core leadership skills, including time management, effective communication, problem-solving, and staff management. I embrace collaborative leadership and am data-driven, skilled in applying data to initiate instructional change and school improvement.
I am a strong advocate for educational technology, believing it is a powerful tool to enhance student engagement and personalize instruction. I actively incorporate interactive technology and 21st-century skills into my lessons. I have shared my expertise by presenting on instructional technology, specifically creating Google Forms, at conferences such as MACUL and miGoogle. I also take initiative to teach other staff members about new technology platforms and offer structures of support.
My dedication and impact have been recognized through various achievements. I was honored as Teacher of the Month in 2025 and have been nominated for Teacher of the Year multiple times, including for the Waterford School District in 2024-25 and Concept Schools in 2017/2018. I have also received WGU Excellence Awards for exemplary work in "Mathematical Modeling and Applications" and "Mathematics History and Technology". I am a true team player who consistently goes above and beyond, contributing positively to the school community and fostering a collaborative and supportive environment among peers. My commitment to lifelong learning means I am constantly refining my teaching methods and seeking feedback to better meet the evolving needs of students.