New hires announced at Baker School District 5J

BAKER CITY —  A fresh school year usually means there are new opportunities for students and staff, and new people to interact with. Baker School District 5J has issued a release detailing new licensed staff that will begin with the district this year. Read the full press release below:

(Press Release from Baker School District 5J)

There will be some new faces around the district this school year. 

Kyndall Thomas has been hired as the new Assistant Principal for South Baker Intermediate School following Krystal Irby’s move from Assistant Principal to Principal this year. Prior to joining Baker School District, Ms. Thomas was an Instructional Coach and Intervention Specialist for Oregon Trail School District in Sandy, OR, since 2021. Prior to that, she was a K-5 classroom teacher and STEM Specialist for the district. 

In addition to Ms. Thomas, Chalene Harshman has been hired as the new Child Development Specialist for South Baker Intermediate School, Janet Lea has been hired as the new Choir teacher for Baker High School, Abigail Lusco has been hired as the new Special Education teacher for Baker High School, and Kelly Turner has been hired as the new ESL and Spanish Teacher for Baker High School.  

Meghan Carr will also be returning to the district as the new 1st grade teacher for Brooklyn Primary School, and Melissa Garner will be returning as the Physical Education teacher for Baker Early Learning Center. 

“There is such a breadth of experience in this group of incoming licensed staff,” says Baker School District Superintendent Casey Hallgarth. “We are so fortunate to have these individuals and their families in our community and on our team serving the students within Baker School District. They are joining a wonderful staff, and I know this year ahead is going to be one of our best yet!” 

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Elkhorn Media Group