Jennifer McBrayer doesn’t feed the social media trolls – but she does combat their rumors with facts.
She uses her social media platforms to promote understanding about complicated topics like school funding, engaging directly with parents and community members. She also meets with state legislators, county commissioners and other public officials to advocate for policies that support students and teachers.
“I strive to be someone stakeholders can trust to listen, respond fairly and act with integrity,” McBrayer said. “Even when difficult conversations are necessary, I approach them in ways that I hope preserve relationships and allow the school community to move forward together in the best interest of students.”
When McBrayer became the CHASE Middle School principal in 2023, student conduct was a significant concern among teachers and parents. By setting and enforcing consistent expectations for discipline, referrals have gone down by more than 37%, reducing lost instructional time.
In addition, the school's results from the bi-annual Teacher Working Conditions Survey show increased educator satisfaction with both student conduct and the overall school culture.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, CHASE sheltered medically fragile patients and housed supplies, with McBrayer leading logistics and communication with the various relief agencies and local government entities.
She continues to coordinate a variety of community partnerships to expand hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Families are encouraged to get involved in the Local Advisory Group, through which McBrayer solicits feedback and ideas for school improvement, and Pirate Council, which provides monthly recognition and support for teachers.
Since beginning her career as a math teacher in 1996 – at CHASE High School, no less – McBrayer has served in various roles across Rutherford County schools, including as an instructional technology facilitator, assistant principal and principal.
“Across these roles, Mrs. McBrayer has built a reputation as a strong instructional leader who sets a clear vision and inspires her staff to achieve it,” Superintendent Dr. David M. Sutton wrote in a letter of recommendation for McBrayer’s Principal of the Year application. “She is deeply committed to student success, ensuring that every decision is grounded in what will best serve the young people entrusted to her care.”