Jeremy Braketa is a Grade 8 Humanities teacher, hired in 2016 after two years teaching at an international school in Brazil and seven years at a public school near Charlotte before that. Jeremy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Colorado State University, and a Master of Arts degree in Global Studies from UNC-Greensboro.  

His wife and he decided to move to Asheville after a far too long hiatus from the mountains, which they both took when they moved from Colorado after college. When not teaching, he can be spotted either sipping coffee downtown or hiking/biking in the mountains.

Get to know Jeremy Braketa:

In what ways can you teach/engage children at CDS that you couldn't at other schools?

“The smaller class sizes allow for more meaningful relationships, not only between myself and the students, but among the students themselves. I have noticed over the years that student success is very closely tied to the prevalence of healthy relationships.”  

How would you describe your classroom?

“A student-centered classroom, where everyone can feel relaxed and free to express themselves, and proud of what they are able to accomplish.”

What books and authors inspire you?

“As an avid reader, I would say that there have been many books that inspire me, from classic literature to nonfiction. Learning from not only the content of the books, but also the various styles of writing, makes me a more informed and well-rounded communicator.”  

What is your favorite quote about education?

“Confucius has many great quotes (or at least ones that are attributed to him), but one in particular stands out. Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.”

How would you describe yourself and/or your approach to your job in 10 words or less?  

“I want students to understand, not just know (or think they know)”

What personal passion brings balance to your life?

“Being outdoors, reading, cooking and traveling.”