Blog

Jason Bricker is that familiar face around the school. While his current official capacity is as the Middle School Director, Mr. Bricker is well-known for being involved in many extra curricular activities, and for his kindness, energy, and passion. He’s the unofficial emcee for basically every event at CIS, and he’s done just about everything – from soccer coach to pride leader to E-Sports. Mr. Bricker is a tour de force in the CIS community.

We caught up with Mr. Bricker and asked a few questions about his time at CIS.

How long have you been a part of the CIS Faculty?

I am currently in my 23rd year at Columbia Independent School. 

Do you think there was a turning point for the school with regards to growth, or has it been a steady climb since its inception?

It has not happened overnight but CIS is still a relatively young school in the realm of independent schools and the first one of its kind in Columbia. It is amazing when you stop and consider that enrollment has outgrown our capacity at our original downtown and current campus. 

Of all the hats (jobs/positions) you’ve worn at the school, what has been your favorite and why?

That is a really difficult question! I have had so many wonderful experiences over the years.  Whether being a Pride Leader, chaperoning Model UN and international trips, to being a soccer coach or sponsoring student created clubs, it is difficult to narrow down to one. However, currently I love standing outside and greeting students as they come into the building in the morning. The smiles make my day!

What has motivated you to stay with CIS?

I am not sure I have really ever thought about it in those terms. I have always felt a sense of belonging here and would like to think that as the school has grown, so have I. I mean not physically of course, I am still short, but personally and professionally. I guess there is always a drive to see what’s next, what’s possible, and to see our school community not only grow, but thrive. 

What are three aspects of CIS that make it stand out?

Intellectual curiosity, student-centered teaching, and rapport driven relationships between students and teachers. 

How has your experience at CIS changed since your own children were enrolled?

Oh wow, it is so cliche but true in this regard- time flies. I have all these wonderful snapshot memories of different events over the years and I feel so lucky that I have had a chance to experience them. Nothing beats getting a hug when I see my son in lower school when I see him in the hallway. I also have a middle schooler so I might only get a head nod as he walks by but it is still great! 

What has Ted Lasso taught you about leadership?

Quite a bit actually. As Ted of course said it best himself, “I think one of the neatest things about being a coach is the connection you make with your players. That’s a loss that hits me a lot harder and is gonna stay with me a lot longer than anything that happens while playing a game on a patch of grass.”

What are you excited about for the future of CIS?

The plans for the new upper school building.  The growth potential in terms of having room for the upper school in a state-of-the-art facility, coupled with the renovation of our current building for our lower and middle school students is exciting.