Superhero Servant: Sgt. Baker inspires FES as SRO

City of Fayetteville Police Department Sgt. Tracey Baker keeps Fayetteville Elementary safe as the school resource officer.

Baker grew up in a military family. They moved around the country and even spent 6 years in Germany. Wherever they were, the importance of teamwork and getting involved was stressed.

“Growing up in that military family with 2 brothers, it was a lot of discipline, structure, and service was always a part of our life,” said Baker. “It’s a huge part of who I am, and that foundation early on really shaped my approach to my life and my career.”

She started out teaching Pre-K before getting into law enforcement. She loved working with kids, but wanted a different challenge. Helping a student in her class who had been abused changed her path.

“That moment right there said there’s something different that I’ve got to do.”

Law enforcement took her in many different directions, like working in jails and courtrooms or serving as a patrol officer or a juvenile detective working on cases involving minors. She stayed focused on helping people in difficult situations and building relationships with the community.

Becoming a school resource officer has been incredibly fulfilling, being a superhero for the kids at Fayetteville Elementary.

“These guys bring something to my soul because everyday I come in here, it doesn’t matter what I look like, I’m the most beautiful person ever. I’m loved. They love on me, they hug on me, they’re happy to see me. It’s just a great feeling,” she said. “I have my own fan club.”

Baker’s job bridges the gap between law enforcement and the school. She helps students and staff feel safer and get to know the police in an everyday setting.

“There’s not really any typical day, which is part of what makes the job unique. One minute I’m handling a safety concern, the next minute I’m talking with a student or supporting the staff, or helping resolve conflicts,” she said. “A big part of the job is being visible and approachable and building trust.”

Baker calls being a part of the Fayetteville Police Department’s School Resource Officer Unit the best job.

“I couldn’t be more proud of this unit I’m in,” she said. “A lot of the inspiration comes from the people we serve, especially my little kiddos here. Seeing their growth and resilience is a constant reminder of why it’s so important that I do this.”

Baker is driven to make positive impacts, no matter how small they might seem.

“At the end of the day, I would say my why is so very simple. It’s about being there for the kids, not just when something goes wrong but in those everyday moments and making that small positive impact on their lives,” said Baker. “If I can do that, my job is done. If I can be that small hope for them for that moment or that day, it makes me happy, and those are my wins.”

 

“The Honor Role,” an official podcast for Fayette County Public Schools, features employees, rotating through key stakeholders, including teachers, staff, nurses, custodians, cafeteria workers, and bus drivers. Join us as we dive in and learn about their journeys, their inspirations, and their whys.

Episodes are available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and promoted on the social media channels of Fayette County Public Schools.

Episodes will also be available here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2200811