When former Toledo High School Principal Richard Ceder saw potential in DeeAnne Barnhart for an upcoming Graduation Coach position, he knew she’d be perfect for the role. The only obstacle? The required credentials. That conversation became the catalyst for Barnhart’s educational journey through LCSD’s “Grow Your Own” program.
A 2001 Toledo High graduate herself, Barnhart has deep roots in the community. She’s been part of the LCSD family since 2016 as classified staff, but her connection goes back to her own graduation year when she began coaching. Today, she balances her district work with family life, including four children who either attend or have graduated from Toledo Jr/Sr High, and her husband Clayton, a local fishing vessel captain.
“My biggest motivator was my family, especially my mom,” Barnhart shares. “Throughout my life, she showed me how to pursue education while being a single parent involved in everything we did. She’s a boss!” This inspiration helped Barnhart manage full-time work, coaching duties, and her studies at Oregon Coast Community College, where she recently earned her Associates of Arts to Transfer degree.
The journey wasn’t always smooth. Barnhart had initially started college in 2002 but put her education on hold after having her first child. “This time around, it made me persevere these last three years to adapt and grow through all my busy seasons,” she reflects.
The experience has changed her perspective on education. “I’ve realized that education is always changing, and you can always add to your knowledge toolbox,” says Barnhart. While she’s content in her current position, she’s considering continuing her education further.
Her advice to other LCSD employees considering the program? “Do it! This program was amazing. It gave me the opportunity to achieve that goal I had when I graduated high school in 2001.”
“Grow Your Own” is a partnership between LCSD, Oregon Coast Community College, and Western Oregon University for District classified staff to become teachers and other licensed staff to get further education. It is funded through a grant from the Oregon Department of Education.