There is a new addition to the BJHS staff which is the new Baldwin Junior High Life Skills teacher for grades 6-8, Bari Deardorff. 

“I moved to the Baldwin district as I was offered the chance to broaden my teaching repertoire by starting up the Life Skills classroom once again,” Deardorff said. “I also was intrigued by the overall positiveness of the district students and staff when I visited.”

Deardorff has a very interesting background. 

“I have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education,” Deardorff said. “I have a master’s degree in Curriculum. This year begins my 28th year in education, all being a special education teacher.”

Deardorff is bringing interesting things to the classroom. 

“My knowledge and experience as a special educator and my experience with being a long time mentor teacher is what I want to bring to Baldwin,” Deardorff said. 

Deardorff has some favorites about this school district.

“The openness of all the staff and the true community feel the district gives,” Deardorff said.

Deardorff has many favorite things about teaching and here are some of her favorites. 

“What I like the best about teaching is the chance to work with kids and watch them grow through learning new skills and concepts. I enjoy having my teaching community to talk with to help support students,” Deardorff said. “I also enjoy engaging with parents of my students to celebrate success and to work to improve areas of weakness.”

Deardorff  talks about her future goals for her classroom. 

“I was given a new curriculum that I have never used before, so my current goal is to become acclimated and proficient with using it,” Deardorff said. “I also want to provide the best possible education to my students that I can. Long term, I would like to continue to work in education, but at some time I would like to teach a class at the college level or work for the state in some aspect of education.”