Barbara Baker Named Superintendent of Garrett County Public Schools

Barbara Baker Named Superintendent of Garrett County Public Schools

The Garrett County Board of Education announced at its February 27^th meeting that Ms. Barbara L. Baker will be the Superintendent of Garrett County Public Schools beginning July 1, 2017.  She will continue to serve as Interim Superintendent until June  30, 2017.

Ms. Baker thanked the Board of Education members.  She went on to say, "I look forward to serving the students of Garrett County for the next four years.  I greatly appreciate the support of the teachers, staff, and administrators.  I know that we will work hard together as we continue to do what is best for students."

Mrs. Monica Rinker, Board President, stated, "We are honored to have a former Garrett County student and educator to lead our school system. We have received positive feedback from the public and GCPS employees endorsing Ms. Baker as the Superintendent."

Ms. Baker has served the students of Garrett County Public Schools for the past 27 years.  She began her career as a German instructor at Southern Middle School in 1990.  Since that time, she has continued in a variety of roles including elementary school teacher, principal, director, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and Interim Superintendent since July 1, 2016.  During her tenure, she has been responsible for overseeing classroom instruction, building management, instructional leadership, school improvement, strategic planning, grant writing and management, and serving as a chairperson for many committees and teams.  Her experience has led her to be involved in all facets of education.  She has worked with all stakeholders from students, teachers, building administrators, community, to central office. Beyond her involvement at the local level, Ms. Baker has participated in regional and state level (MSDE) educational planning and implementation and is familiar with state initiatives and related legislation.      

Ms. Baker is a product of Garrett County Public Schools and a graduate of Northern Garrett High School.  She continued her education at Ohio University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and a minor in German.  Additionally, she has earned a Master’s Degree in School Guidance and Counseling and certification in Administration and Supervision.  She is enrolled in the Frostburg State University Doctoral program and is working toward a doctorate in educational leadership with a concentration in P-12 Leadership.          

Ms. Baker is an active member of the Oakland Rotary Club, serving as the organization’s president since 2015. As a member of the Rotary, Ms. Baker has served as chairman of the annual Christmas project, organized and participated in fundraisers, and coordinated educational guest speakers. Most recently the Rotary Club honored Ms. Baker with the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.  This is given annually to one member who has gone above and beyond to serve the community in the spirit of Rotary.  She is also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional honor society of women educators whose mission is to promote professional and personal growth and excellence in education.          

Ms. Baker is a resident of Garrett County and the daughter of Robert and Ann (deceased) Taylor.  She has two siblings who are also involved in education – Suzan Taylor-O’Brien (teacher) and David Taylor (Southern Garrett Wrestling Coach).  She has one daughter, Nicole Ann Baker, a 2016 graduate of Southern Garrett High School.  Together, they enjoy traveling, outdoor activities, attending national sporting events, and supporting county activities such as sports, arts, sciences, and robotics.