Petra M. Baker, M.Ed., Ed.S

The Healing Power of a Healthy School

Health at Gateway Michael School is part of the school’s foundation, and Petra Baker has made sure of that. Having spent 22 years of her career serving its student population of pre-k to 8th grade students who are medically fragile – often with multiple disabilities – Petra has taken Gateway Michael from an America’s Healthiest School bronze award winner in 2016 to a two-time gold-winning school from 2018-2020. The changes she’s incorporated range from healthy celebrations and soda machine removal to an updated community garden, new exercise equipment, and a walking trail. Most recently, Gateway Michael received the Family Engagement Distinction, awarded by Healthier Generation and Kohl’s to schools who are strengthening partnership between families and educators.

Petra’s incredible efforts have earned Gateway Michael national attention. She’s a tireless champion of health and her students, and hopes to continue her school’s health journey alongside Healthier Generation for years to come.