Dr. Jerry Baker
For the Tift County Board of Education, District 6. An experienced education leader and longtime Tift County resident.
Strong Schools ★ Strong Students ★ Strong Community
Three decades of leadership in education and governance
- ★More than 30 years of leadership experience in education, administration, and nonprofit organizations
- ★Former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
- ★Served as Interim Principal of Tift County High School and Interim Superintendent of Tift County Schools
- ★Extensive experience in budgeting, strategic planning, accountability, and board relations
- ★Committed to strong schools, student opportunity, and collaboration with families, educators, and the community
“During Academic Year 23/24 I had the opportunity to serve as the Interim Superintendent for Tift County Schools and as the TCHS Principal. These two positions provided me with a great appreciation for the needs of the students and teachers in Tift County.”
What I will focus on
Selecting the Next Superintendent
Define the position carefully, seek broad stakeholder input, compare search options honestly, and evaluate every candidate against the same criteria.
Responsible Stewardship of ESPLOST
Focus capital dollars on buildings that need replacement or major renovation, say no to frivolous projects, and avoid raising property taxes.
Protecting Instructional Time
Clear, consistent expectations that begin in the early grades, with meaningful consequences and shared accountability between schools and homes.
Sound Financial Oversight
Understanding state funding formulas, local revenue, capital funding, and federal grants — and planning ahead for uncertainty.
Recent updates
October 22, 2026
From Good to Great: Building the School District of Choice
With three new board members joining in 2027, Dr. Baker outlines what becoming the school district of choice in South Georgia requires: stability in governance, accountability to the Strategic Plan, and quality oversight.
October 16, 2026
Teacher Retention
Early voting is underway and Election Day is November 3. Dr. Baker reflects on the TCHS candidate forum and pairs exit interviews with stay interviews as part of a broader teacher retention strategy.
October 12, 2026
Your Vote Matters
Early voting begins Tuesday, October 13th and ends October 30th — Election Day is November 3rd. Dr. Baker reflects on why voting matters and encourages every registered voter to participate.
I welcome your support and your vote
Questions, ideas, or want a yard sign? Reach out — I would appreciate hearing from you.