Get To Know Your New Board Member

BRANDON CHANDLER GREGORY-PORTLAND ISD TASPA DISTRICT I REPRESENTATIVE

Brandon Chandler is in his 22nd year in education and began his career as a junior high teacher in Richardson ISD. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music

Education from the University of North Texas and a Masters in Educational

Administration from Lamar University. He served as an orchestra director for 9.5 years before moving into campus administration as an Assistant Principal in Grand Prairie ISD. After serving as an Assistant Principal for 2.5 years he served as an Elementary school Principal for 6 years in Tyler ISD and Arlington

ISD. After taking a campus from low performing to meeting standard with distinctions, he sought out a position in Human Resources because he saw the impact hiring quality staff had on an organization and student achievement.

ADVICE TO THOSE NEW TO HR?

He is currently in his 4th year as Chief Human Resources Officer for Gregory-Portland ISD and has found his passion. He loves the challenges HR offers each day as well as the ability to build positive relationships with staff at all levels of the organization. If people are thinking about Human Resources as a career option, Brandon highly recommends it. The advice he offers to those thinking about a career in HR is to learn as much as they can about leaves and absences – particularly FML and always look to policy! “Policy is definitely your friend and will usually provide clarity and give you direction.”

CURRENT CHALLENGES IN YOUR DISTRICT?

While HR work is very rewarding it does come with challenges and right now the major challenge facing HR professionals is finding high quality staff to fill vacancies. While this is a challenge currently, it is also an opportunity for us to find alternative ways to meet the needs within a district.

HOW HAS TASPA BENEFITED YOU?

I think TASPA has provided a forum for HR professionals to come together to brainstorm and solve problems across the state that effect schools when it relates to staffing. I remember speaking to an HR professional (Johjania Najera) when I was considering a move to HR and she recommended I get connected through TASPA. It has been one of the best pieces of advice I have received because the network I have been able to form with others in TASPA has been invaluable. When I have had questions, there is always someone willing to help. If Dr. Guerra doesn’t know the answer, she will get you connected to someone that can help. I am excited about serving District I and TASPA overall.

If anyone ever has questions, Brandon is willing to help!