Dr. Troy Baker, Church Farm School’s incoming Head of School, has extensive experience in faith-based and independent school education. He most recently served as Upper School Director at Breck School, an Episcopal PreK-12 college preparatory school in Minnesota.
Prior to Breck, he spent six years at Pace Academy in Atlanta as Director of Student Life and Director of Athletics and seven years as Director of Athletics at Lausanne College School in Memphis.
Dr. Baker holds a B.S. in Education from Wright State University, an M.A.T. (Master of Arts in Teaching) in Secondary English from Brown University, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. Throughout his career, Dr. Baker has demonstrated a deep commitment to developing and implementing progressive policies that promote a safe and supportive learning environment, build and retain a high-performing faculty, drive enrollment, strengthen collaborative partnerships and ensure equitable access to academic opportunities.
The school is confident that Dr. Baker will continue to advance Church Farm School’s mission and core values while building on the legacy of the Shreiner family, fourth Head of School The Rev. Edmund K. Sherrill, and Tiffany Scott, who is currently serving as Interim Head of School through June 30 and will assume the role of Associate Head of School on July 1.
CFS recently interviewed Dr. Baker for the spring edition of its Maroon & Grey magazine to learn more about his educational philosophy, eagerness to join the CFS community, and willingness to become a Philadelphia sports fan.
What is your educational philosophy? Does this philosophy change when you consider all-boys?
My philosophy of education is simple: strong relationships provide the foundation for student success and life outcomes. School should be a place where all students are known, cared for, and respected. A rigorous curriculum and brilliant teachers are at the core of any quality academic institution, but a curriculum alone cannot reach a child who does not have a positive relationship with some aspect of their school. There are obviously some differences between an all-boys environment and a co-ed school, but some things are universal.
How does the mission of CFS resonate with you?
CFS prepares a diverse group of boys in grades 9-12 with academic ability and good character to lead productive and fulfilling lives by making a college preparatory education financially accessible. Some of the community’s needs have changed since the school was founded, but the most impressive aspect of CFS’s mission is that it has remained consistent in its service to young men since 1918.
What were your first impressions of the CFS campus? The students?
I was blown away by Church Farm School. I loved the overall aesthetic of the physical plant, the obvious investment in the grounds, and the fact that there is still room to build. The students were curious, respectful, and engaging. It was clear that they shared a bond of brotherhood that was inspiring. What stood out most to me was the fact that the faculty, administration, alumni, parents, and trustees were all highly invested in the mission of the school and showed a profound sense of care for the students. It was evident to me that CFS was a special place.
In your vast experience in schools, what do you think is a commonality that all kids need?
I’ve worked in urban public schools, charter schools, and independent schools, and I have learned that, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, kids are kids no matter where they are from. Kids need love, and kids need structure.
Learn more about how Church Farm School serves boys from a range of socio-economic circumstances who are seeking an extraordinary educational opportunity.
