Mr. Baker was born in Earlville, New York, and received his early education there. He was graduated in 1923 from Colgate University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. In 1936, he received his M. A. in Education from Columbia University.

Although he majored in chemistry, Mr. Baker taught algebra for many years after accepting his first teaching job at Ilion High School. His superior qualifications led to his membership for six years, from 1936 through 1942, on the state committee for preparing math regents examinations.

Initiation of the guidance department, in Ilion High School during the early 1930's, is one of Mr. Baker's many contributions to help students. He has also been senior yearbook adviser and leader of the golf and bowling teams. In 1950, he became principal.

Our principal's activities have not been limited to school functions. In the community, he was a member for twenty years of the General Herkimer Council of Boy Scouts, serving as president for two years. He was presented with the highest award in the Council, the Silver Beaver.

During the past eight years, Mr. Baker has been adviser, planner, mediator, and friend for the pupils of Ilion High. During his busy days, he has coped not only with his duties, but also with every problem, minute and large, of students and faculty. Through this, he has remained the calm, reassuring leader and tactful diplomat. No trouble was too great or too small for his consideration. Helping with a discipline problem, chaperoning at formal dances, or helping a bewildered senior with advanced algebra --- he was always there.

So, Mr. Baker, our salute to you, for a job well done! This is your year of retirement, but we hope that you will not consider it the end of your career. Such a career never ends. Your good influence on the students, faculty and policies of I.H.S. will continue for years to come. They have made our school what it is today.

As we leave I.H.S. together, we know that your interest in and for Ilion High School, like ours, will never cease.

THE SENIORS

Although you have not been able to stay with us this year, you have been very close to us. We will remember always your sincere and ever-present smile ... our freckles and pixyish countenance...your joyous laughter ... your ingenious humor ... the way you pitched in and helped with any project ... your vibrant enthusiasm ... your talent in sports ... your favorite song, "May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You" ... your friendliness ... your sparkling personality.

During high school days, Sheila participated in French club, Latin Club, FNA, and Orpheus Choir. She served as vice-president of GAC, her homeroom, and Beta Chi. In addition, she was on the Mirror and the Quill staffs. A special skill of Sheila's, cheerleading, earned for her the privilege of representing Ilion High School for Three years.

On November 9, 1957, Sheila, chosen by the senior high school, reigned as "Queen of Homecoming" at the Herkimer-Ilion game.

These things that made Sheila such an important part of our lives and so dear to us --- we shall remember. She is always close to our hearts.