Principals
Erica Brunson - Principal
Welcome Birmingham Families,
I am thrilled to begin my 16th year in education, and I am blessed to be a part of the Birmingham Elementary family! I have taught pre-k, special education, third-grade, and fourth-grade. I was the Assistant Principal of Tibbals Elementary for three years before coming to Birmingham as the campus principal. One of my favorite parts of my job is building relationships with every Bear that comes into our school. I believe all students have the ability to learn and achieve at high levels, and I am here to support teachers, parents, and our community in order to help all kids achieve this greatness.
My husband and I have been married for 20 years, and we have a junior at Wylie East High School and an eighth grader at Burnett Junior High. You will often find me cheering on my kids at baseball games and drill team/dancing events. I also love to read, watch college football, and eat at yummy breakfast spots around town!
Degrees:
Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Texas
Master in Educational Leadership from Texas Tech University
Certifications:
Principal as Instructional Leader EC-12
EC-4 Generalist
EC-12 Special Education
EC-12 English as a Second Language
Accomplishments:
2012-2013 Most Inspiring Teacher, Garland ISD
2013-2014 Teacher of the Year, Garland ISD
2014-2015 Crystal Apple Recipient, Wylie ISD
2016-2017 Teacher of the Year, Wylie ISD
2016-2017, 2017-2018 New Teacher Mentor, Wylie ISD
2018-2019 Lead Campus Mentor, Wylie ISD
2019-2020, 2020-2021, 2021-2022 Curriculum Leadership Team, Wylie ISD
Joannie Gragert - Assistant Principal
Hi! I have been an educator since 2003 and joined Wylie ISD in 2016 after nearly 13 years in Plano ISD. I hold a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington and a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Early Childhood Development from Stephen F. Austin State University.
I am certified as a Principal as Instructional Leader, EC-4, and ESL. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about fostering a safe, caring, and supportive environment where students can thrive. I believe that when children know they are valued and cared for, they feel empowered to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, traveling, and enjoying the outdoors.
Degrees:
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development from Stephen F. Austin State University
Master of Educational Leadership and Policy Study from the University of Texas in Arlington
Certifications:
Principal as Instructional Leader EC-12
EC-4 Generalist
English as a Second Language
Accomplishments:
2004-2005 Beginning Teacher of the Year, Plano ISD
2010-2011 Experienced Teacher of the Year, Plano ISD

