Huron Valley school head gets central office job at DPS

Detroit — The superintendent of the Huron Valley Schools in Oakland County has been named deputy superintendent of human resources for the Detroit Public Schools Community District.

James Baker, appointed by Emergency Manager Steven Rhodes, is scheduled to begin work Aug. 22.

Baker earned a master’s degree in education leadership from Wayne State University and has more than 17 years of experience as a central office administrator.

“The district needs a strong leader to help identify and support the best, most qualified talent possible,” Rhodes said in a statement. “Jim has a robust background in education and administration to lead the district in this important work and he is an excellent fit for the team. He has proven experience in the various functions of human resources, most importantly with a focus in education.”

Baker will be responsible for hiring and retaining certified teachers in critical need areas. He will reorganize the district’s human resources department and streamline DPS’ hiring process. He also will work with interim Superintendent Meriweather on an evaluation program for the district’s long-term academic plan.

Baker previously was human resources director for the Romulus Community Schools.

He joins the new, debt-free Detroit school district that was created by the state legislature as part of a $617 million rescue package approved in June to pay off hundreds of millions in long-term debt at Detroit Public Schools.

SLewis@detroitnews.com

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