Brandi Hallmark - Founder

Mrs. Hallmark is the Founder and Director of Learn Upstate Tutoring and Liberty Oaks Academy. She received her BS from the University of Alabama in International Marketing / Spanish, but she knew even then she would eventually become a teacher.  After college, she worked in various corporate environments managing Customer Service, Corporate Training, and Human Resources.  She was blessed to stay home with her children in their early years before returning to school to fulfill her dream.  She received her Master’s in Teaching from Anderson University and taught in various school environments throughout Anderson County.  

As a public and private school teacher, she was able to work with diverse groups of students and families, witnessing firsthand their struggles in learning. Eventually, she found her calling in the homeschool environment.  With four children, who each learn very differently, Mrs. Hallmark realized something more was needed outside of the normal classroom. She understands that families need an environment where student needs are met on their level. Moreover, an education that is individually tailored for the student in an environment meant to promote success while inspiring confidence. This mission led to private tutoring out of the library, and after only a short time, the founding of Learn Upstate Hybrid Academy.  Now, she will lead Liberty Oaks Academy, a not-for-profit version of Learn Upstate, continuing her goal of helping families afford a private, individualized educational option for their children.

The aspect she enjoys most about leading Liberty Oaks is the challenge of helping students see success in school where they might not have in the past.  She especially enjoys creating new ways to learn and collaborating with her staff to build confidence in learners.  Mrs. Hallmark is married to Joey Hallmark and has four children, Gabe(23), Cole(20), Lucy (15), and Nora (15).  In her free time, she enjoys gardening, traveling, reading books, and spending time with friends and family.