Educator Directory

Brandon M. West is a middle school social studies educator at Altamont Lutheran Interparish School (ALIS), where he teaches civics, government, world history, world geography, and life skills to sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade students. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in History from Eastern Illinois University, as well as a Master of Arts in Middle School Education from Concordia University River Forest. Brandon’s teaching philosophy is rooted in inquiry-based learning, historical literacy, and active civic engagement. He believes that history and civics come alive when students interact directly with primary sources, engage in civil discourse, and understand their own role in shaping communities. As an Illinois Civic Learning Week Ambassador and active member of multiple national social studies organizations, he is dedicated to equipping young people with the critical thinking and character needed for thoughtful citizenship. For Brandon, education is ultimately a high calling and a daily walk of faith. Growing up with a deep-rooted Christian foundation, his faith journey has continually shaped his view of teaching as a ministry of presence, patience, and grace. In the classroom, he strives to point students toward truth, cultivate compassion, and nurture the whole person—recognizing every student as a unique individual created by God with gifts to share with the world.