passion & Expertise
Dr. Staci Barker grew up in Granbury, TX, attending public schools throughout her K–12 education and graduating Salutatorian of her class while actively participating in a range of extracurricular activities. She earned a full academic scholarship to Texas Tech University, where she studied English with minors in Political Science and French, and later completed a Master of Arts in English Education at New York University.
Dr. Barker began her teaching career on the east side of Washington, D.C., where she supported students in developing their reading and writing skills while navigating the complex challenges facing low-income, urban school communities. These early years deepened her conviction that every child—regardless of background or zip code—deserves access to high-quality educational opportunities. They also instilled in her a lasting respect for the tireless work of teachers and the need for systemic support.
Upon returning to Texas, Dr. Barker continued teaching before transitioning into educational leadership, first at the campus level and then in district administration. As a District Director of Academics and Director of Assessment, Data, and Intervention, she gained broad expertise in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. One of her most fulfilling roles was coaching campus leaders to partner with teachers in strengthening classroom instruction—work that combined her love of data with her passion for student success.
Eight years ago, Dr. Barker joined an Education Service Center, where she has provided consultation, training, and technical assistance in assessment, accountability, and strategic planning to districts across North Texas. In 2021, she earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. Her current role focuses on supporting instructional programs through data-informed decision-making and long-range planning, further reinforcing her commitment to ensuring rigorous, relevant learning for all students.
Since being elected to the LISD Board of Trustees in 2023, Dr. Barker has served as Chair of both the Policy Committee and the Board Operations Committee, and as a member of the Program and Budget Review Committee, the Superintendent Evaluation Committee, and the Naming Committee. Under her tenure, the district has celebrated a top-five finalist for Texas Superintendent of the Year and a Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year, along with numerous achievements in athletics, academics, and fine arts. LISD has maintained an A-rating on the state’s FIRST financial accountability report and has seen consistent gains in College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR)—a key focus of Dr. Barker’s 2023 campaign. In fact, the past two years the district has earned the prestigious CTE District of Distinction!
Dr. Barker’s blend of classroom experience, district leadership, and regional policy expertise continues to shape her thoughtful, student-centered approach to governance. Her unwavering focus remains on what is best for all students and staff, and on building a district where excellence and opportunity thrive.
where i stand on the pledge
I would like to take a moment to address a photo that has been circulating, which shows me standing respectfully during the Pledge of Allegiance, but not reciting it aloud. I understand that this may have raised some concerns or questions, so I want to be clear on where I stand.
First and foremost, I am proud to come from a family with a rich tradition of military service, including my brother, uncle, cousins, and my great grandfather who fought for our country at Iwo Jima. My profound respect for their sacrifices and the values they upheld, such as our freedom of speech, has been a driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in education.
As an educator, my top priority has always been fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment for all of my students. When I was a classroom teacher, I made the decision to stand in solidarity with several students who chose not to recite the Pledge of Allegiance due to personal reasons. In my commitment to being a supportive teacher, I continued to stand with them and other students who chose not to recite the pledge over the years, through my campaign several years ago.
I want to be clear that while I supported my students' decision, I also recognize the significance of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the values it represents. As a member of the LISD Board of Trustees, I confidently recite the Pledge at meetings and events, and I consistently champion the values of freedom, democracy, and respect for all.
I wish to underscore that the essence of freedom of speech is found in respecting the choices of others, even if they differ from our own. This is the very principle our military has fought to preserve, and it is a value that I continue to uphold in both my personal and professional life.
Thank you for taking the time to read this statement, and I sincerely hope that you will continue to support me as I work tirelessly to ensure the well-being and success of all of our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Staci Barker
