Kaijah Bell – Founder of The Brat Brigade

As a proud military brat, I’ve lived through the unique and often challenging experiences that come with growing up in a military family. From countless PCS moves to long deployments of my father, my childhood was shaped by the constants of change and the need to adapt. While those experiences weren’t always easy, they instilled in me valuable lessons in resilience, flexibility, and the importance of building a strong sense of community—no matter where life took us.

Even after my father retired from active duty, military life remained a part of my identity. I know firsthand how different it is to grow up in this niche community—how much it means to have others who understand what it’s like to pack up and start over, to switch schools every few years, or to go months without seeing a parent. These experiences made me realize how much support military children and families need, not just logistically, but emotionally as well.

A Niche Community Like No Other

Being part of a military family is a unique experience, and growing up as a military child truly shapes you for life. From saying goodbye to friends with every PCS move, to learning new schools and neighborhoods, to living through deployments, it’s a lifestyle that only other military kids really understand. It wasn’t always easy, but it built a deep sense of resilience and pride in who I am and where I came from.

What stands out to me most is the bond we share with other military families. There’s an unspoken understanding among us that no matter where we are stationed, we’re all part of something bigger. I realized early on how important it was to have a community that truly understands, and that’s what inspired me to create The Brat Brigade.

Educational Background & Professional Qualifications

I earned my undergraduate degree in History from the University of West Florida and later completed my master’s in history at Liberty University. I’m also currently pursuing a PhD in History, with a focus on naval aviation, diversity, and advancements in military training. My academic background, combined with my personal experiences growing up in a military family, gives me the knowledge and passion to support military families in meaningful ways.

I also volunteer at the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM), where I work closely with the Homeschool Academy and participate in events like Girls in Aviation Day. Through this work, I’ve deepened my connection to military families and found even more inspiration to help those navigating this unique lifestyle.

The Brat Brigade: A Mission of Support and Community

I founded The Brat Brigade with one mission in mind: to create a space where military children and families can thrive. Growing up in this lifestyle taught me how important it is to have both educational and emotional support. That’s why The Brat Brigade offers not just courses designed for military children, but also a space for spouses to connect through the Brigade Spouses Club.

I want The Brat Brigade to be more than just a resource—I want it to be a bridge that connects military families and gives them the tools, community, and support they need to feel empowered. Whether it’s through our online courses, our workshops, or the forums where spouses can share and support each other, I’m committed to helping military families feel seen and supported no matter where they are stationed.

As a military brat myself, I know the impact this lifestyle can have, and I’m passionate about helping others navigate it with confidence. The Brat Brigade is here to uplift military children and spouses, and I believe that together, we can create a stronger, more connected community.

"Why Parents Should Enroll Their Children in Our Unique Military History Courses"

Enrolling in Kaijah Bell’s online military history courses offers a wealth of benefits for students and parents alike. These engaging, interactive lessons are filled with fun activities that capture students' interest while being tailored to specific age groups (Crew Members, Midshipmen, Officers) to ensure the content is age-appropriate and stimulating. With a unique focus on naval and military history, the courses dive deep into areas often overlooked in traditional curriculums. Students explore not only the key figures and events but also the diverse contributions of individuals like Jesse L. Brown and women in naval aviation, providing a well-rounded understanding of history.

Guided by Kaijah’s expertise as a naval historian, students receive top-quality instruction informed by her advanced degrees in Military History and practical experience at institutions like the National Naval Aviation Museum. This expertise enriches the lessons, connecting students to real-world historical insights. Beyond learning facts, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills as they explore historical events, technological advancements, and the strategic challenges faced throughout military history. This approach fosters problem-solving and analytical abilities that are vital for both academic success and future career readiness.

The online format offers flexibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace, making these courses perfect for homeschoolers, military families, or students with busy schedules. Additionally, the courses bridge the gap between history and STEM by highlighting technological innovations in naval aviation and inspiring interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. By understanding how the past informs modern-day technological advancements, students also gain future-ready insights into careers in related fields.

Inclusivity and global awareness are key elements in these courses, with a strong emphasis on diversity in military history. Students gain a deeper understanding of the global impact of military decisions and international conflicts. These lessons promote not just historical knowledge but also critical writing, communication, and analytical skills, preparing students for higher-level studies in history and beyond.

The courses are also cost-effective, offering affordable education without compromising on value. Each week includes small, engaging assessments designed to gauge understanding without overwhelming students, helping them develop strong academic skills. Overall, these courses foster a lifelong love of history, encouraging students to explore the stories, innovations, and lessons from the past in a way that excites and inspires them.

FAQs

  • Absolutely! At THE BRAT BRIGADE, we believe in fostering student engagement through project-based learning. Each course includes options for individual projects where students can delve into topics of personal interest related to military history. These projects encourage creativity, critical thinking, and the application of knowledge, allowing students to showcase their unique perspectives and research skills. Our instructor will provide guidance and support to help students turn their ideas into impactful projects.

  • We prioritize cultural awareness and inclusivity in our curriculum. Throughout our courses, students will engage in discussions and activities that highlight the rich tapestry of military life, including the experiences of different branches of the armed forces, historical contexts, and the contributions of diverse groups within the military. This approach not only broadens students’ understanding of military history but also promotes empathy and respect for different backgrounds and experiences. We also encourage students to share their own stories and those of their families, fostering a deeper connection to the material.

  • Families are encouraged to take an active role in THE BRAT BRIGADE community! We are planning to host various family engagement events, such as history fairs, community service projects, and family nights, where parents and siblings can join in the learning experience. Additionally, we are creating an online forum and discussion group that allow families to connect, share resources, and support one another. We welcome parent volunteers for events and activities, and we appreciate feedback to continually improve our programs. Together, we can create a vibrant and supportive community for all participants. Please Contact Us for more ways to get involved!

  • Our curriculum is designed to challenge students to think critically about historical narratives and sources. We incorporate discussions, debates, and analysis of primary and secondary sources that encourage students to question, reflect, and form their own opinions about historical events. Assignments and projects are structured to promote independent exploration, allowing students to research topics that intrigue them and present their findings creatively. Our goal is to nurture inquisitive minds that are not only knowledgeable about military history but also skilled in critical thinking and analytical reasoning.

Start the adventure today.