passion & Expertise
Dr. Barker grew up in Granbury, TX, attending public schools throughout her K-12 education, graduating Salutatorian of her class while also involved in a number of extra-curricular activities. She received a full academic scholarship to Texas Tech University, where she studied English, with minors in Political Science and French. She went on to attend New York University for a Masters of Arts in English Education.
Dr. Barker’s teaching career began on the east side of Washington, DC, guiding students in their reading and writing skills while navigating the myriad of challenges facing low-income, urban school communities. This experience solidified in her a desire to ensure that all students have the best possible educational experiences, no matter their background or zip code. Her years in DC also showed her the powerful but incredibly hard work teachers do every day to serve their students with often inadequate support.
Upon moving home to Texas, Dr. Barker continued to teach, then moved into administration, first at the campus level, then at the district level. Her work as a District Director of Academics and Director of Assessment, Data, Intervention gave her a wide range of experiences and expertise in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Her favorite responsibility in that job (other than her deep love of spreadsheets) was coaching campus leaders on working with teachers to continuously improve instruction on campuses.
Six years ago, Dr. Barker transitioned to working at an Education Service Center, providing consultation, training, and technical assistance in the areas of assessment and accountability to districts across north Texas. In addition, she earned her PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating in August of 2021. In the past three years, her role at the ESC has shifted to providing data and strategic planning support for the center’s instructional programs. Seeing the variety of educational settings in this role has deepened Dr. Barker’s commitment to encouraging relevant and rigorous opportunities for all students.
Dr. Barker’s passion and expertise make her an excellent addition to the LISD Board of Trustees. Her focus will ever be on what’s best for all students and staff.
where i stand on the pledge
I would like to take a moment to address a photo that has been circulating, which shows me standing respectfully during the Pledge of Allegiance, but not reciting it aloud. I understand that this may have raised some concerns or questions, so I want to be clear on where I stand.
First and foremost, I am proud to come from a family with a rich tradition of military service, including my brother, uncle, cousins, and my great grandfather who fought for our country at Iwo Jima. My profound respect for their sacrifices and the values they upheld, such as our freedom of speech, has been a driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in education.
As an educator, my top priority has always been fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment for all of my students. When I was a classroom teacher, I made the decision to stand in solidarity with several students who chose not to recite the Pledge of Allegiance due to personal reasons. In my commitment to being a supportive teacher, I continued to stand with them and other students who chose not to recite the pledge over the years, through my campaign last year.
I want to be clear that while I supported my students' decision, I also recognize the significance of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the values it represents. As a member of the LISD Board of Trustees, I will confidently recite the Pledge at meetings and events, and I will consistently champion the values of freedom, democracy, and respect for all.
I wish to underscore that the essence of freedom of speech is found in respecting the choices of others, even if they differ from our own. This is the very principle our military has fought to preserve, and it is a value that I will continue to uphold in both my personal and professional life.
Thank you for taking the time to read this statement, and I sincerely hope that you will continue to support me as I work tirelessly to ensure the well-being and success of all of our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Staci Barker
