James

Baker

Assistant Professor of Education
Coordinator of Elementary Education

For the past 35 years, James Baker has devoted his life to education in Kansas. Baker completed his undergraduate degree at Friends University in Wichita. He also holds a Masters in Elementary Education from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas and a Masters in School Leadership from Wichita State University. Before coming to Bethany, Baker taught multiple grade levels, served an elementary school principal and helped develop and implement Kansas MTSS.
In addition to his classroom experience, Baker was a lead teacher, instructional coach, and curriculum developer for International Science Camp: The Earth We Share. The camp was a six-week camp for 12–18-year-old students from around the world who participated in the scientific process and cultural exchanges using Discovery Topics, developed by Astronaut Mae Jemison, National Science foundation and NASA. Curriculum was implemented by teachers and innovative leaders throughout the camp. The program was based on experiential learning, integrating critical thinking, science, technology, and social issues.
Baker was a founding member of the Kansas Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Team aiding in the research, creation and implementation of the nationally recognized Kansas MTSS model. Since 2006, James has served as a MTSS trainer. This has given him great insight and understanding in the needs of Preschool through High School in the development and support of students, educational leaders, teachers, and Boards of Education, in the implementation and sustainability of the MTSS model and other educational initiatives.
James looks forward to offering his support to students as they continue their education as teachers and upcoming leaders in Education at Bethany College.