Browse archives: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995

Published on 09/01/1997 All articles from this issue

Memorial service for Baer, MVHS principal who invited student input

printer friendly version

By Linda Taaffe

Town Crier Staff Writer

Students and staff members at Mountain View High School observed a moment of silence the first day of classes in honor of school principal Thomas Ernst Baer, who died Aug. 23 after a nine-month bout with colon cancer. He was 49.

During his brief tenure at Mountain View, Baer became best known for his enthusiasm and optimism, said Patricia Hyland, former vice principal and interim principal.

"He believed in everyone and worked very hard to make sure all students were given opportunities to succeed," Hyland said.

Baer served as principal from 1995 until last November when he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He had planned to continue to act as principal while undergoing chemotherapy, until he experienced some unexpected and severe side effects from intensified therapy treatments, said Steve Hope, who served as interim principal last year.

Hyland said school officials were uncertain whether Baer would return to Mountain View during the 1997-98 school year, after he requested a leave of absence for the first semester.

Hyland said Baer was in the process of initiating many student programs, including a focus group that would address student issues. He was intent on raising the awareness of students' abilities and needs, she said.

Hyland said Baer was a non-traditional leader who regularly invited students to chat with him to find out what was on their minds.

"He valued those kids not heard," she said. "He really listened to their thoughts, wants and needs."

Baer was born in San Francisco. A 1966 graduate of Cupertino High School, he received his bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in 1970. He returned to California, where he earned a teaching credential and master's degree in education from San Jose State University. Before coming to Mountain View, he taught at Homestead and Lynbrook high schools.

Baer was also a former planning commissioner for Los Gatos and helped found the Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos.

A service was held for Baer at the Congregation Shir Hadash, Aug. 24. Approximately 350 people, including many of his students, attended the service.

Hyland will serve as interim principal at Mountain View.