Even though Jeff Brandmeyer takes on the role as a film teacher at CHS, he also supports his students and gives them a resource for help. Brandmeyer has a powerful influence on his film students.
Brandmeyer has been the leader of the Carlsbad High School Film Academy for six years and is both a Film English teacher and the Filmmaking teacher. Under his leadership, the program has maintained a strong focus on creativity, and academic excellence.
“I love teaching both classes and I’m always here for my students,” Brandmeyer said. “I don’t find teaching both classes particularly very stressful.”
Being a film teacher himself, Brandmeyer has watched many movies over the years and has a few that he favors over others in particular. Brandmeyer often turns to movies as a way to unwind and recharge.
“My favorite movie of all time is Magnolia, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson in 1999,” Brandmeyer said. “I love it because it’s got an incredible cast, really compelling writing. Cinematic brilliance.”
There are many young students who would like to become filmmakers when they are older. Brandmeyer is not a filmmaker himself, however he does know a thing or two about the craft and gives guidance to kids who can become successful with filmmaking
“The film industry is notoriously difficult to get a foothold into and actually make a life and career out of it,” Brandmeyers states. “As high school students just immerse yourself in the world of film, watch as many films as you can, analyze them, but the answer in terms of being an actual filmmaker is to just keep doing it.”
Brandmeyer has built a huge connection with the Carlsbad High filmmaking community, but he also has a very happy family who he enjoys spending time with. Outside of school is time for Brandmeyer to let his mind drift and enjoy life.
“I love my family, love spending time with them, I enjoy watching movies, I read, I love reading as an English teacher, I like board games, and I also collect board games,” Brandmeyer said.
Beyond the classroom, Brandmeyer also has his own ways of handling life’s challenges, often turning to the things that help him reset and stay grounded. These routines allow him to maintain balance and approach both his personal and professional responsibilities with a steady and thoughtful mindset.
“The thing to do when going through hard times is [to] focus on helping others,” Brandmeyer said. “You might be going through a rough time, but if you [only] focus on how you can make a person’s day better, you kind of tend to forget that your own day is not going really well.”
