In 1980, a young Anne Baker took a leap of faith into the world of education, joining Binns Elementary School, and has since stood as a testament to dedication. This January marked an extraordinary 45 years since Baker began shaping the minds of the young as an instructional assistant. As detailed on Columbus City Schools' website, her remarkable journey is celebrated by students and faculty alike, with even the principal dubbing her the "glue that holds Binns together."
The daily routine for Baker at the elementary school hasn't waned in enthusiasm or commitment. She actively engages with the kindergartners, putting them into groups and offering the needed one-on-one guidance—evidence that her heart lies firmly within the realms of early childhood education. Despite her multiplicity of tasks, she confesses to the Columbus City Schools' news outlet, "I stay in kindergarten. That’s where my heart is." Her affectionate tenure has not gone unnoticed, as she enjoys the unique privilege of teaching not only children but also their progeny in what has become a multi-generational familial tradition.
Baker's noteworthy contributions led Binns Elementary to declare January 9 as Anne Baker Day, a tribute to her tireless service and unwavering devotion. The celebrations aren't limited to a single day, with tributes ringing out throughout January. Beth Eshelman, one of only three kindergarten teachers Baker has worked with, credits her for much of her own success as an educator. "She took me under her wing, and she has taken good care of me," Eshelman told Columbus City Schools. "She made me into the teacher I am."
When it comes to a deep understanding of the school's history, staff, and community, Principal Joel Grant finds Baker's knowledge to be unparalleled, contributing significantly to its favorable climate and culture. "She is the glue that holds Binns together," Grant said in a statement obtained by the Columbus City Schools, affirming Baker's central role in the educational institution. Hailed as a VIP, Baker's attachment to Binns Elementary goes beyond mere occupation—it's a lifelong passion that doesn't seem to expire, with her declaring the space as "the best school in Columbus."
