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After teaching for 32 years, Mrs. Baker welcomes retirement with open arms.
While in college, Baker took a literature class and absolutely fell in love with the study of literature. “I changed my major to Communications III, which is English, Journalism, and Speech with Education 7-12 -- the best of all worlds,” she added. She loved her journalism classes and recommended Kent State and Ohio University's programs to anyone interested in journalism. “Journalists are the watchdogs of society and are imperative to the democratic process,” Baker added.
Out of all the things she enjoys about teaching at AHS, her students and her colleagues are what makes teaching the best. “Sharing books and seeing students find genres they enjoy reading truly makes me happy,” she concluded. Mrs. Baker also loves to read her students' writing and see how they grow through it. As for her colleagues, Mrs. Lindley has made a big impact on her; over the past 12 years they have worked together to bring literature to their students.
A memorable experience Baker had with a student is when she attended the Northeast Ohio Scholastic Press (NOSPA) competition with her journalism class. “During my career, I taught Journalism and advised two high school newspapers -- and watching students attend the sessions at NOSPA with professional journalists, graphic designers, and photojournalists is something memorable because it ignited a passion in students, and many students went on to study journalism,” Baker mentioned. This was back when the newspapers were printed, so the students had to sell ads to support the paper. “A few times, my staff earned a first place for Overall High School Newsmagazine, and I loved seeing all their hard work and grit pay-off!” she added.
When asked to give advice to her students, Baker shares that it’s important to be present in your classes and your life. “Put your phone away and enjoy the life that you are living and the people who are in it,” Baker added.
In her free time, Mrs. Baker loves exploring national parks with her husband. “I love the National Parks; they are so beautiful and full of life. My husband and I visit different parks each summer,” she shared. She also loves animals!
As her teaching career comes to an end, Mrs. Baker will miss teaching, but she knows that her dogs will be very happy that she has more spare time. She also shares the following advice: “Serve others, be humble, be willing to laugh at yourself, and wear sunscreen.”
AHS is very fortunate to have had Mrs. Baker with us for the last twelve years, and we wish her the best of luck in her retirement!
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