Brookwood hires new Lower School director

THOMASVILLE -- Brookwood School has announced the hiring of Andrea Bentley as the new Lower School Director, effective June 2021. 

“I’m honored to be chosen to serve as the new Lower School Director,” Bentley said. “This is a wonderful opportunity, and I will give Brookwood School my absolute best. I’m excited to build new relationships and get to know more of the students, families, and faculty of Brookwood.”

Bentley began her teaching career in 2002. She has been a Grady County “Chosen Educator” four times and the Grady County Teacher of the Year once. She has served in an administrative role at Whigham School since 2013. As Instructional Coordinator, she has overseen key aspects of curriculum and instruction in each of the Elementary School grade levels,  and has had key leadership roles, including the Site Director for the Pre-K Program. She is regarded as an adept problem-solver, empathic listener, and a caring leader.

She holds a B.S. Ed. in Middle Grades Education, a M.Ed. in Middle Grades Education, and an Ed.S. in Secondary Education, all from Valdosta State University. Bentley is also Gifted Certified through Southwest Georgia RESA and is pursuing her Ed.D. in Leadership at Valdosta State University. She is the Author of “20th Century American History for Kids: The Major Events That Shaped the Past and Present,” which was published last year.

Headmaster Dr. Randy Watts lauds her qualifications for the role. “Andrea Bentley has a deep educational background, as well skills and experiences that make her uniquely qualified for this position. I believe that she will bring a lot to the table, particularly in leadership, team-building, admissions, and curriculum development. She is the quintessential professional who will quickly connect with students, teachers, and parents. Her knowledge of our school community gives her an immediate understanding of who we are and what is needed for our Lower School to continue to thrive.”

A Grady County resident, she has been active as an instructor for South Georgia Ballet, and as a volunteer for the United Way, First Baptist Church in Cairo, as well as a volunteer and tutor for at-risk youth.