Kate Barker is a seasoned principal, teacher, coach, author, consultant, and advocate with over 33 years of experience in education. Her journey has been deeply rooted in her passion for creating equitable opportunities for students and families in diverse and economically challenged communities.

Her story is one of dedication and unwavering commitment to fostering vibrant, fun, and loving school environments while maintaining high expectations and intentional structures. Over the years, she has received recognition for her work, including being named Oregon's Principal of the Year and earning the distinction of a National Distinguished Principal for her purposeful contributions in the realm of multi-tiered systems of support which encompass academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning. These contributions have led to high achieving and connected school communities where everyone belongs and conquers rigorous goals.

Her academic background includes a master's degree in special education, and she is a tireless champion for teaching inclusive strategies to all educators, bridging the gap between general and special education to ensure that every student can succeed academically and socially in the general education setting. This encompasses not only students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) but also English Language Learners (ELLs) and those facing other barriers and trauma.  Her unwavering dedication is directed toward crafting a school environment where every student feels not only welcome but also deeply connected to a broader community