With Election Day in the rearview mirror, I write to thank the voters of Ward 1 for electing me to serve on the Augusta School Board. 

Over the past five years, I have found a family and made a home in Augusta. This year, I decided to run for office because I hope to give back to a wonderful community that has given so much to me.

Being a very active citizen and volunteer, I am ready to step up and serve in an even bigger way.

Whether people signed my candidate petition form, attended the municipal candidate forum, posted on social media, saw my name on the ballot or voted for me, I am grateful for their support. Running for office is rarely easy, and voters gave me the confidence and courage to do so.

As the proud grandson of a public schoolteacher and graduate of a public high school, I have a deeply personal commitment to public education. After I am sworn in, I will work hard to ensure our students have what they need and our teachers have what they deserve. 

I believe that my experiences as an English teacher, a teacher trainer with the U.S. Peace Corps and a committee clerk for the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee (among others) will allow me to make meaningful, thoughtful contributions to the School Board.

Starting in January, it will be a great honor to represent Ward 1 on the Augusta School Board. 

Samuel Baker
Augusta