Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

Robert Barr graduated from Parkland High School, attended Winston-Salem State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Intermediate Education, and later earned a Master in Education from Wake Forest University. 

Robert Barr taught in the school system for 14 years.  He taught the following grades:  3,4,6,7 and served as a curriculum coordinator.  At Paisley and Kernersville Middle, he was elected teacher of the year and was one of the nine finalists for Forsyth County Teacher of the Year.  

He is married to Marilyn Barr who has 20 years of teaching experience.  They have two children in Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools.

Robert Barr will be an excellent board member to represent parents and teachers. Robert Barr taught for 14 years and has been married to a teacher who has 20 years of experience in the classroom.  Plus, he has two children, a first and fifth grader.  So, he is in the trenches of education every day. 

Robert Barr believes that in order for our children to be successful we must build a broader community coalition around our children and schools which will increase the graduation rate and decrease the achievement gaps. 

Robert Barr strongly believes in involving and engaging parents in their child's education. In reference to our budget challenges, budget cuts should not directly affect teachers and the quality of instruction.

As it relates to how teachers are evaluated, teachers should never be evaluated solely on students' achievement tests, but other evaluation instruments determined by teachers. More instructional programs should be implemented to teach children how to think critically.  Before any budget cuts are made, teachers need to be play a significant role in developing plans and options.