ericaMOORE
shirleyNANNEY
Tim Barker is Weakley County School District’s new Transportation Director. The longtime educator began July 21. He is the former principal of McKenzie Elementary School.
“Like the rest of the country, Weakley County Schools has faced numerous challenges in securing bus drivers,” noted WCS Director Randy Frazier. “Finding the right leader who can navigate through that crisis while also keeping our buses safely on the roads was a priority. We were fortunate that Tim Barker was available and has the experience to build on the foundation his predecessor Ron Byington laid.”
Barker brings 36 years of experience serving surrounding school districts as a teacher, administrator, and bus driver. Most recently, he was a full-time bus driver and math teacher at Big Sandy School (Benton County).
“I’m thrilled to join the team,” said Barker. “I’ve enjoyed working in a variety of roles in education, and I know this will be a fulfilling new way to serve parents and students. I’m very fortunate because Weakley County Schools has a strong, safe bus operation already in place.”
Frazier noted Barker’s institutional knowledge regarding safety, scheduling, planning, and logistics will be well-utilized in his new role.
Barker said he believes that open communication is an important responsibility of his position.
“My door is always open. Please reach out to our office with any concerns or questions you have. We are looking forward to a great school year,” said Barker.
After his McKenzie job he served as former assistant principal of Big Sandy School (Benton County). Over the years, he’s taught various subjects including math, chemistry, and acted as AP coordinator and building testing coordinator. He taught at Huntingdon High School, Big Sandy School, Waverly High School, and Camden Central High School. He served as a full-time bus driver shuttling students between Big Sandy and Camden this past year where it was common for him to drive upwards of 100 miles each day.
Barker obtained his teaching degree from Bethel University and an administration and supervision degree from Tennessee State University. He is married to Vicki Barker who is a certified pharmacy technician, former school secretary, and educational assistant. Vicki will soon be behind the wheel as a Weakley County bus driver and an education assistant at Dresden Middle School.
They have two sons, Aaron and Andrew, and two granddaughters.
