"There are so many emerging fields that we need to find out the skill sets needed at all levels of an organization," he said.

WELL-INFORMED OUTLOOK

Baker may be moving into a new role in July, but he said it's one he's been preparing for since 2003 when he became a middle school principal and began pursuing his doctorate.

He didn't have a specific timeframe in mind for becoming a superintendent, but said when the opportunity arose with Redinger's departure after a year, he felt ready.

"I thought I could do a good job of continuing to move things forward."

That opportunity for a "seamless transition" from Redinger's tenure was a huge plus, board members said.

For Baker, a bonus is getting to assemble his own executive staff.

"One of the things I really enjoy about leadership is the opportunity to build a team to make us strong and united," he said.

Baker has several challenges ahead, including another tough budget cycle next year, but said he's approaching his first days as a superintendent with a healthy perspective.

"As the child of a superintendent, I never romanticized it," he said. "But I knew it could be a great place to make a difference because of my passion for students."

Pamela Gould: 540/735-1972
Email: pgould@freelancestar.com