Board Member Focus: David Barr

“If you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of something for somebody, you’ll end up not doing nothing for nobody.” ~ Malcom Bane 

It’s refreshing when people are naturally inclined to give back and realize the power and influence of service.  David Barr’s life experiences have a common thread weaving throughout that link him from one service opportunity to another.
 
His tenure in the Army comprised various roles such as Platoon Leader, Company Commander and Provost Marshal. Since 9/11, he has been called to active duty twice, and after years of service he retired at the rank of Colonel.  These experiences speak to Mr. Barr’s ability to think strategically, plan proactively and work collaboratively with others.
 
Recruited to the Linwood Public Charter School board by Board President Gard Wayt and high school classmate Bishop Willie Phillips, Mr. Barr felt a personal challenge to provide some assistance to the school.  The task was clear:  lead Linwood Public Charter School to noteworthy academic achievement. 

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“I joined them four years ago and serve today as the Board Vice President because I know this mission can and must be accomplished,” said Mr. Barr. “I had worked in Caddo with Linwood’s principal who, I feel, gave her life in efforts directed at positive academic achievement for the school, prior to the RSD takeover.”
 
As a product of and retiree of Caddo Parish Schools, Mr. Barr has a unique perspective and believes there is much for him to bring to the students and citizens of Caddo Parish. 
 
“David's insight and good judgment, his background as a military officer in security, and his experience in human resources with the Caddo School System have made him an invaluable asset to our Board in its work. His courtesy, dignity and passion for improving children’s lives set an example for everyone involved with charter schools. Working with David is a joy,” offers Gard Wayt.
 
A Type 5 BESE / RSD school, Linwood Public Charter School serves sixth through eighth graders in Shreveport, Louisiana.  The school is managed and operated by SABIS® Educational Systems, Inc., a for-profit Education Management Company.  The curriculum is sufficiently broad to allow students opportunities to study a range of subjects, including: English, mathematics, science, history/social studies, music, art, health, P.E., and information technology. Particular emphasis is given to English and math, as these subjects are a gateway and the building blocks for understanding and exploring other subjects.

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