Teamwork Toolbox

Hey guys, thanks for visiting! My name is Brent Barker and I am a husband, father of 2, and veteran educator fortunate to have chosen a profession that I love. For my entire career, I've taught biology, chemistry, and anatomy at the same high school. Since 1994 I have also been the varsity women's head basketball coach. Although the demands of doing both are often challenging, I feel blessed to have worked with amazing young people that make my job so rewarding. For 3 years, I also served as the model science classroom for middle and high schools in our county and have also been a beginning teacher mentor for over 20 years. I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in '92 (Go Heels!) and earned National Board Certification in Biology in 2002 and renewed in 2012.

In the classroom, my goal each school day is to have work that challenges and engages my students making them excited about returning. We use small group inquiry activities that demand collaboration, problem solving, and risk taking. Through years of teaching and reflection, I've developed and fine tuned lessons that keep students active, help break down and master tough topics, and that grow lifetime learners.

I am so thankful to have a family that has fully supported me and my commitment to my career over the years.   My wife Jennifer who encourages (and tolerates) me is my long time best friend. We were not only classmates since 5th grade, but also "a couple" for several months in 8th grade when she told me she was going to marry me. A decade and a decent haircut later, she was right and we've been married since '93.

I have two children that are are NC public school grads. My daughter who loves to sing and play guitar is starting her second year as a nursing major. My son is currently a high school science teacher in South Carolina.


When I am not teaching or coaching, I love being with my family outdoors. We've visited Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Yosemite, Zion, Bryce, Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, and Congaree National Parks along with dozens of state parks. We enjoy hiking, kayaking, and have tent camped for years. Last Fall we purchased a teardrop camper which we love and have plans to expand our travels across the country over the coming years. I also enjoy graphic design, playing guitar/singing, basketball, football, concerts, and theater.