Pearson-Baker

MINGO JUNCTION — Brittany Pearson-Baker is using her marketing skills in a new way as district librarian for Indian Creek Local Schools.

Pearson-Baker stepped into the role in August and succeeded longtime media director Michele Fabbro, who retired this summer after nearly 56 years of service. The Follansbee native was previously employed as a marketing teacher at her alma mater, Brooke High School, before taking on her current position. She said she began her career path in marketing but said she found her calling in the classroom.

“I got a marketing degree and loved creating and designing, but I really loved teaching and fell into it,” she said.

The 2007 Brooke grad earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration (marketing) in 2011 and a master’s degree in education in 2014, both at West Liberty University, as well as a doctorate in education from Grand Canyon University in 2019. Pearson-Baker worked as an instructional designer for corporate businesses for two years in addition to teaching. She said her transition to ICMS has been a smooth one and she was enjoying her time getting to know the faculty, staff and students.

“I am teaching media literacy I, II and III in related arts and am also the Media Club adviser,” she said, adding that she’s carrying on Fabbro’s work of teaching students the tools of the journalistic trade. “Everybody has been very helpful and very welcoming and it’s been a great environment. I’ve been able to utilize analyzing advertisements, targeting audiences and the good and bad in digital media.”

She said that she uses her background in conducting marketing research in lessons so students learn how to find credible sources. Pearson-Baker is preparing the club to go live with morning news segments, which were planned for this month, in addition to other regular activities.

“I’d love to keep the integrity of the club and add aspects to make it my own as I get acclimated in my position,” she said.

“We’ve worked on having to conduct searches, writing newsletters and creating graphics, designs and scripts. It’s been a learning experience and I’m enjoying it. I’m excited.”