We're wrapping up 2024's Staff Spotlight posts with fourth grade teacher Jon Baker. If you've met him, you'll know why students and our Haycock community love having him here!

How long have you been a teacher?

This is my 25th year teaching. I've been at Haycock for six years, all of them in fourth grade.

What were you like as a kid?

As a kid, I was very interested in history and would devour any books on the subject I could get my hands on. I had a particular interest in the American Presidency and would try to visit presidential birthplaces and presidential libraries whenever possible. 

What made you want to work in a school?

I had a teacher in high school who encouraged me to go into the teaching profession. 

What do you love about Haycock?

I have found the people who work at Haycock genuinely want to do the very best they can for the students who attend the school. I feel very supported by those I work with, and I have had the pleasure of getting to know amazing students each and every year too. I've met many extraordinary people in this job. I find Haycock to be a unique and positive place. I am very proud of the work we collectively do here to improve the lives of our students. 

What makes you smile or relaxes you?

I enjoy the outdoors and the change of seasons. Working in nature is relaxing for me. 

What books are you currently reading?

Twenty Days, A Narrative in Text and Pictures of the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln by Dorothy Meserve Kunhardt and Philip B. Kunhardt Jr.

What other media entertains you?

I enjoy PBS shows like "American Experience", "Secrets of the Dead", "Nature", "NOVA", "Frontline", and "American Masters".

What fills your time outside of school?

Visiting historical sites, reading, gardening. 

Our students love "fun facts" about people and topics. What's a fun fact about you?

I donate my time as a volunteer for the National Park Service at the Ford's Theatre Museum and Historical Site every Saturday. As part of my job, I have to give "Ranger Talks" from the Ford's Theatre stage, teaching visitors about the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln.