Dr. Brandie Benton serves as Assistant Commissioner for Educator Effectiveness and Licensure at the Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. In this role, she leads statewide efforts to support educator quality, licensure, evaluation systems, and other programs that strengthen Arkansas's educator workforce.

Dr. Benton brings more than two decades of experience spanning K-12 education, higher education, educator preparation, and educational leadership. Prior to joining the Arkansas Department of Education, she served as Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at Virtual Arkansas, where she helped advance innovative learning opportunities and instructional excellence across the state. She also held leadership positions at Henderson State University, including Associate Provost for Enrollment Services and Admissions, Coordinator for Accreditation, Assessment, and Federal Programs, Director of Admissions and Clinical Experiences, Associate Professor, and University Supervisor.

Throughout her career, Dr. Benton has been committed to advancing educator effectiveness, technology integration, and student success. She is co-founder of Schools Without Walls, an organization dedicated to helping educators effectively leverage technology in teaching and learning. Her professional experience also includes service as an International Baccalaureate humanities and technology teacher, business technology teacher, and professional development specialist.

Dr. Benton earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Social Studies, a Master of Science in Education in Curriculum and Instruction, and completed the Educational Leadership Program of Study at Henderson State University. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Arkansas. She maintains educator licensure in multiple content areas and educational leadership and is an active member of several professional organizations focused on digital learning, social studies education, and educator development.