The BIR Performance Driving School, which is based at Brainerd International Raceway and has instructed hundreds of racers, car enthusiasts, law enforcement officers and students over the last two decades, has a new director: long-time driving instructor Andre Serra.

Serra took over the school’s leadership role today after the departure of Gary Curtis, who had been a driving instructor for more than 20 years and was the school’s director since 2011.

“We’re really excited to have Andre join our team,” BIR Owner Kristi Copham said. “He’s got 30 years of instructing experience at schools across the country and is well connected in this industry. He’s got some great ideas on how to grow the school and give our fans more opportunities to experience the thrill of high-performance driving.”

Serra, a native of Brazil, raced as a youth before moving to the United States 30 years ago. He’s been a driving instructor and racing coach ever since at programs like the Skip Barber Racing School, AMG Driving Academy, BMW Performance Driving School, Porsche Driving School and the Audi Driving Experience, among many more. He’s also worked with car manufacturers to help launch new models and is typically a fixture at annual car shows around the country.

“I think the potential for this track is incredible,” Serra said about BIR. “I want to work with everyone here as a team to really build this program.” Among the ideas he’s got for the school is a drifting school, an expanded ride-along program and events for car manufacturers, which will come about as the result of his vast connections with manufacturers.

As for this year, the BIR Performance Driving School has been open for all its scheduled school dates, while taking measures to satisfy the state’s Covid-19 safety guidelines. The remainder of the 2020 schedule will stay intact as well, with scheduled school dates and private events being held as originally planned.