.png)
For Toni Brandon, the ability to care for others has always been a gift she cherished.
"I love taking care of others. I always knew that I wanted to become a nurse someday," said Toni.
During her time at Apalachee High School, Toni was an active member of the Future Health Professionals (HOSA) club and played the clarinet in the high school band for all four years.
Her journey through Barrow County Schools began at Kennedy Elementary, continued at Westside Middle, and culminated at Apalachee High, where she graduated in 2006.
After high school, Toni traded her Wildcat marching band attire for the iconic Georgia Redcoat Band uniform. She continued to play the clarinet during her time at the University of Georgia, fulfilling a dream.
"It was a dream to be a Redcoat! I love watching college football, I love Georgia, and of course, I loved being in the band. It was such a big part of my life," Toni recalls.
Eventually, it was time for her to hang up her uniform and focus on nursing school. She became a Registered Nurse and worked at Piedmont Athens for ten years. Throughout the pandemic, Toni's dedication never wavered, but she knew it was time for a change afterward.
Ready to return to her roots, Toni became the school nurse for Bear Creek Middle School and has not looked back since.
"I love working with the kids! I love this age group. I chose Barrow County because this has always been home for me," she explains.
Advice for Students:
"Stay focused, make a goal, and don't give up until it is finished."
We are proud of our BOLD Alumni. Thank you, Toni Brandon, for sharing your story.