Patricia Branner-Pierce, Black Student Achievement Program Achievement Specialist

September 14th, 2016

As a Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP) achievement specialist, Patricia Branner-Pierce lives out her passion of giving students and families enrichment and support opportunities. Branner-Pierce’s inspiration comes from growing up in East Harlem and credits her mentors–like those in the BSAP–with changing the direction of her life.

Branner-Pierce is deeply grateful that her world was broadened by attending and later tutoring at a youth program. She said, “If it wasn’t for that program, I know I wouldn’t be here. That program is very similar to what I’m supervising now with the Community-Based Learning Centers (CBLC). The children we serve. That’s me. I’m one of those children because I showed up to get homework support and be exposed to other things.”

HCPSS’ BSAP works to close achievement gaps and helps all students take advantage of opportunities. Along with her BSAP achievement specialist colleague, Sheree Whitby, Branner-Pierce provides leadership for the BSAP summer program, CBLC after-school enrichment program, Saturday Math Academy and school-based BSAP liaisons, and more.

Branner-Pierce loves the challenge of her job, always looking to develop BSAP for the benefit of the students. “If the program doesn’t change in five years, I have a problem, so I look at my goals and work to meet those goals,” she said. Her attitude for continuous improvement comes from her strength as a learner. Branner-Pierce explained, “I always want to inspire children to learn because you can learn in every situation, even in the the grocery store. The more you know, the more choices you have. Knowledge is power.”

Coordinator of Academic Access and Achievement Programs Zeleana Morris said, “Pat’s position requires that she interact with stakeholders within the system and external stakeholders as well. Her personality is such that she’s able to be inclusive. She validates what everyone brings to the table. She’s able to clearly articulate our vision as a system and their vision as a support, and move forward with a common goal.”

Branner-Pierce always knew she wanted to be a teacher and has enjoyed an education career spanning four decades and four states. Branner-Pierce came to Howard County, drawn to its family-oriented environment and quality education system, and has worked in the HCPSS for nearly 30 years. She taught in elementary and middle schools until she became a mentor teacher. From there, she became an achievement equity resource teacher, supporting teachers to implement multicultural instructional strategies. Branner-Pierce then jumped at the opportunity to focus her energy on developing BSAP’s elementary programs before taking on her current role.

“I think I’m most proud of seeing the number of people that have passed through the BSAP program and see how they have grown. Some students grow up and come back and tutor here,” Branner-Pierce said, grateful that the cycle of giving back continues.