The Educational Service District (ESD) 112 Board of Directors has selected Susan Barker as its newest board member. Barker, a retired educator and school administrator, will represent District 1, which includes Green Mountain, La Center, Kalama, and Woodland School Districts, and parts of Battle Ground and Kelso School Districts.
Susan Barker and Tim Merlino
Barker’s notable career in K-12 education began in 1975 as a teacher for Yakima School District. Since then, she has supported the education of countless students in most grade levels before moving into school administrator roles. Most recently, Barker was superintendent for Castle Rock School District from 2008 to 2016.
“It’s essential that our board members have an excellent understanding of the Southwest Washington education landscape,” said ESD 112 Superintendent Tim Merlino. “Susan’s extensive experience in education over the course of five decades, her local community connections, and her support of mental health services will serve ESD 112 well.”
“My desire to serve on the ESD 112 Board stems from an ambition to support and protect education for all children in preparation for their futures,” Susan Barker stated. “I believe my skills and experiences can contribute to ESD 112’s continued progress and success, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as the representative of District 1.”
In addition to her recent selection to serve on the ESD 112 Board, Barker is also a board member for Columbia Wellness, Cowlitz County’s mental health agency. Barker earned her undergraduate degree from Central Washington University and completed her graduate degree at City University.
Barker resides in Kelso and has a grown son and two grandchildren who also live in the area.
ESD board members are volunteers who attend monthly meetings held at the ESD headquarters in Vancouver.
Barker was sworn in at ESD 112’s regular board meeting on February 21, at 3 p.m.
