As the new school year gets underway at Pahrump Valley High School, students and staff alike are welcoming a new face to the administrative team. Kristin Baker has officially stepped into her role as Assistant Principal, bringing with her nearly two decades of experience in public education and a deep passion for helping both students and educators thrive.
Although she’s only been in the position for a week, Baker’s enthusiasm for the PVHS community is already clear. With years of experience behind her—primarily as a secondary science teacher—she brings with her a clear mission.
“This school year will mark my 18th year in public education,” Baker shared. “I moved on to administration because I wanted to create the same type of teaching environment for others that my best leaders created for me.”
Baker’s arrival at PVHS is the result of careful consideration and long-term planning. She and her husband had been discussing a move to the Nye County School District and Pahrump for quite some time, and when the opportunity aligned, they felt it was the perfect time to take the leap. Now, Baker is excited to dive in and get to know the school and the town she now calls home.
As she settles into her new role, Baker’s top priority is understanding the unique character of the PVHS community. “I’m originally from a town about twice the size of Pahrump,” she said. “So I feel like I understand small towns in a sense, but every place has its unique quirks, history, and challenges.”
In addition to supporting school operations and academics, Baker will serve as the athletics administrator—an area she’s especially passionate about. She’s committed to ensuring PVHS sports programs continue to represent the community with pride while offering meaningful opportunities for student growth both on and off the field.
“The foundation is strong, and there are many talented and caring individuals who are deeply invested in this community,” she said. “I realize that I have some big shoes to fill in Mr. Odegard’s office, and I’m excited to join in and continue to build.”
As any administrator can attest, no two days are ever the same. Baker described a typical day as one that starts with a plan—but rarely sticks to it. “Most school administrators will tell you that we start the day with a to-do list that typically gets trumped by whatever unexpected issue takes precedence in that moment,” she said. “The challenge and reward go hand-in-hand, because a successful day means completing some or all of the to-do list while dealing with the unexpected so that the school can operate as planned.”
Whether she’s addressing operational needs or supporting instructional goals, Baker makes it a point to connect with what’s happening in the classroom. “I really enjoy working with teachers on instruction and getting to see the great things that are happening in classrooms,” she added. “In 17 years of working in schools, I have never had a day where something good didn’t happen.”
Baker also places a high value on communication and collaboration with students, parents, and community members. She recognizes that while opinions may vary, shared investment in education is always a positive force.
“What I love about a close community is that the investment is unquestionably present,” she said. “It’s difficult sometimes to get everyone to agree on how the work should be done, but being responsive to concerns is necessary. Engaging with curiosity, openness, and respect is typically the best way to find common ground and understanding.”
When she’s not working, Baker finds balance through a love of travel, hiking, and reading. She’s visited 22 countries, with a six-day road trip through Romania ranking among her most adventurous journeys, and the island of St. Croix remaining a favorite destination. Her love of the outdoors and lifelong learning were influenced early on by her grandfather, a National Park Service ranger, and continue to shape her worldview today.
“I love to learn new things,” she said. “And I love encouraging students to have learning experiences of their own choosing through exploration and adventure.”
With her thoughtful approach to leadership, commitment to student success, and genuine excitement about joining the PVHS family, Baker is already proving to be a valuable addition to the Trojans team.
“I’m really happy to be here and be part of the community—both living and working,” she said. “Everyone has been extremely welcoming and I’m excited to get to know the community and contribute to the success of students at PVHS.”
As the school year unfolds, students, staff, and families can expect to see Baker leading with integrity, compassion, and a collaborative spirit that will help build on the strong foundation already in place at Pahrump Valley High School.
