Kate Barker
About Kate
Throughout her illustrious career in the David Douglas School District in Portland, Oregon, Kate Barker has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for students, staff, and families. Starting as a fourth-grade teacher, Kate’s dedication to education led her to various leadership roles, including principal and overseeing K-12 Language Arts, Title I, and Early Childhood.
As a principal for 17 years across three different buildings, Kate cultivated vibrant cultures where significant academic and social growth could flourish, despite the many barriers her community faced. She has spent her entire career working in diverse communities with over 28 different languages spoken, with the vast majority of her families living in poverty. Her educational journey, complemented by a master’s in Special Education and a reading endorsement, has equipped her with a repertoire of systems and strategies for equitable and inclusive practices. Her passion for early childhood led to the development of an all-inclusive preschool in her building. In addition, Kate has 15 years of experience with self-contained classrooms focusing on regulating behavior while maintaining high academic standards.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Kate was honored as the Oregon Principal of the Year and Nationally Distinguished Principal of the Year in 2021. In retirement, she continues to share her expertise as a professor at the University of Oregon in the administrative licensure program, as a consultant and coach for school districts, fostering leadership, inclusive practices, and multi-tiered systems of support. In addition, she is the author of Principaled: Navigating the Leadership Learning Curve where she and her co-authors discuss key concepts to the success of educational leaders.
Driven by her passion for collaboration and connection, Kate believes in the power of relationships to optimize growth for all. Her hope as a coach is to cultivate a trusting and safe space where leaders can flourish. With years of wisdom and experience, Kate stands ready to support and guide leaders on their journey toward success, believing that “the brilliance is in the room” when we learn and grow together.
Kate’s Story
My why is rooted in orchestrating equitable opportunities for all students, staff, and families through intentional systems and structures that emphasize care and connection. I believe that everyone has a story, and it is essential to learn these stories by cultivating meaningful relationships and connections to foster optimal growth. If you knew me well, you’d know that I am a Warm Demander—I hold high expectations infused with love and support. I am an unwavering believer in the potential of every student, staff member, and family. Building connections and relationships is at the core of who I am, and people give me purpose, energy, and joy.
Presentations From Kate
Kate’s Impact in the Field
National Distinguished Principal of the Year with National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in 2021
Speaker at the 2025 International Association for Scholastic Excellence in Singapore