Brandi De La Cruz is a dedicated educator entering her 17th year in the classroom. She currently teaches mathematics at Collierville High School, in Collierville, Tennessee, where she inspires students in Algebra II co-teach, college algebra and trigonometry and dual enrollment calculus.

After earning her Bachelor of Science from Mississippi Valley State University, De La Cruz discovered her passion for teaching and began her career in education teaching geometry and coaching softball in Little Rock, Arkansas. She went on to earn a Master of Arts in teaching from the University of Arkansas, followed by a Master of Science in educational theory and practice from Arkansas State University. Her academic journey culminated in a doctorate in secondary mathematics education from the University of Mississippi, where she also served as a teaching assistant, further deepening her expertise in math instruction and teacher development.

Beyond the classroom, De La Cruz is a leader and advocate. She has served as an instructional coach, professional learning community lead and morale committee organizer and contributes to both the teacher advisory and district strategic planning committees. She also sponsors student groups such as Paw Pals and The Collierville Crazies.

At home, she’s a proud mom to a 1-year-old boy and founder of Mutt Mafia, a nonprofit dog rescue that has saved more than 1,100 dogs since 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys watching sports and officiating volleyball at the club, high school and collegiate levels.