Columbus Board of Education President Gary L. Baker II said he plans to make 2019 his final year of service, Columbus City Schools announced Wednesday.
Baker was re-elected as president of the school board in 2016. He said he plans to finish out his current term through the end of the calendar year.
Baker released a statement in Wednesday’s announcement:
“From my very first day in 2008, I have always believed passionately that serving on a board of education is one of our community’s highest callings, as we directly impact and empower our city’s most precious gifts - the children and young adults of Columbus. Though the work of our school board is never done, I feel that our District is now in the right position to reach the levels of achievement this community expects and our children deserve.”
“Don’t believe the hype and headlines. Support for our young people and for Columbus City Schools is still as strong as when we passed the levy in 2016 with overwhelming voter support. Elected by my colleagues six times to lead our Board, I’ve been proud to see our teachers and staff rally around important initiatives aimed at improving student reading skills and high school graduation rates. We came together as a Board to make the tough decisions when necessary to put our District on sound financial footing and ensure the fidelity and accuracy of student-related data. And we’ve put in place impactful leaders who have advanced our commitment and vision to be a world-class model of public education that prepares members of our communities to reach their full potential.”
“I have been honored to serve with so many others on this Board who have shared in my unwavering devotion and dedication to our students, and I am most proud of the times when our Board has prioritized civility and compassion over politics and pettiness. Disagreements and impassioned voices at the Board table are not new; as Board President, I made sure every voice had an opportunity to be heard, in an orderly and respectful fashion.”
“As I look ahead, I see a new reality on the horizon for our schools and education, influenced by broader trends outside our classrooms, in our neighborhoods, in the halls of the Statehouse, and in Washington. I see commitment and dedication coming to the table in the newest members of our Board and our incoming superintendent. For this reason, I am comfortable concluding my term knowing that there is a clearly-defined, long-term strategic plan that will serve as a blueprint to continued success.”
“The Spirit of Success that we have instilled in Columbus City Schools is not fleeting. I will forever be committed to advancing public education and will continue my efforts as a private citizen who will always put the futures of our children first. 2019 marks 25 years of public service for me, and I am as dedicated to the ideals of democracy and justice as I ever have been.”
