Fifth Grade teacher Jackie Baker has been selected as one of only 50 educators nationwide to represent the state of California in the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon.
This prestigious distinction follows a nationwide contest hosted by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), the title sponsor of the world's largest marathon, which draws over 50,000 runners from more than 140 countries. Selected from nearly 800 nominations, Ms. Baker will proudly represent Sierra Canyon, reminding us all that the pursuit of excellence includes wellness and balance.
Earlier this month, the Lower School community gathered for a special assembly to celebrate Ms. Baker's incredible achievement. Students cheered, shared words of encouragement, and wished her the best as she prepares to represent Sierra Canyon, California, and educators nationwide.
In the spirit of the race, Lower School P.E. specialists partnered with the 5th Grade team to host a mini-marathon, where each homeroom completed challenges inspired by the five boroughs Ms. Baker will run through:
- Staten Island: Building a skyscraper out of boxes, honoring the Staten Island Ferry and its sweeping views of the Statue of Liberty and skyline.
- Brooklyn: Dizzy Bat Relay Race, paying tribute to the Dodgers—formerly the Brooklyn Dodgers—and the historic signing of Jackie Robinson.
- Queens: Musical Islands (a spin on musical chairs), celebrating one of the most culturally diverse communities in the world.
- The Bronx: A hip hop lesson, honoring the birthplace of hip hop culture.
- Manhattan/Central Park: "Escape the Park Ranger" (a large game of tag), nodding to the marathon's final push through Central Park—the energetic hub where the finish line awaits.
Students concluded the day with an in-class celebration, featuring New York–style pizza and apple slices, as they wished their teacher well.
The 26.2-mile course winds through New York City, cheered on by more than one million spectators, making the TCS NYC Marathon one of the world's most spirited and inspiring races. Good luck, Ms. Baker! Your Trailblazer family will be proudly behind you when you cross the finish line this weekend.
#SCLowerSchool
