The award-winning Shaker Heights High School student news organization

The Shakerite
The award-winning Shaker Heights High School student news organization

The Shakerite
The award-winning Shaker Heights High School student news organization

The Shakerite
Emma Barker

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter

Emma Barker (‘28) is in her second year with The Shakerite and is currently the Policy Reporter. Last year, she wrote about weapon detection, breaking news and profiled SHHS student Salma Marzouk for her academic excellence. Outside of The Shakerite, Emma is a member of SGORR, MAC Sister Scholars, The Superintendent Student Advisory Council, ACE, Sources of Strength and YEH. Emma eagerly attends the Board of Education meetings and loves everything Marvel…and her cat, Fitz.

All content by Emma Barker
Students work on math during conference period after school Nov. 5 in Room 232. According to a Shakerite survey, making up a test or retaking a test are the most common reasons for attending conferences.

[Photo] Students Return to Conferences

Jai’Da Whitlow, Journalism I Reporter
November 7, 2025
Shaker students display a Stand Up For Shaker Schools sign for a photo created by the Committee for Shaker Schools. The committee published the photo and a message Nov. 5 to emphasize what Shaker Heights residents can do together. "Yesterday, the Shaker Heights community demonstrated why our school district is so special. While powerful forces attack and demonize public education, you stood strong in defense of our schools, our children and our community. Because of you, Shaker schools will be able to maintain the people and programs that set our district apart. Our community will continue to be known for the schools it keeps. And for that, we thank you."

Voters Approve Issue 51

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter
November 5, 2025
April, who did not want to be identified by last name, displays her anti-incumbent message on Lee Road today. A Shaker parent, she supports Issue 51, the operating levy, and said new leaders are necessary to address test scores, budgeting and special education.

A Sign of Change

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter
November 4, 2025
During a 2018 trip to Morocco, students engage in discussion. They asked about views of America and of terrorism. According to AP World History teacher Amanda Ersek, who organizes international trips, the village women were open and willing to answer all the students’ questions. Some residents who say they won’t vote for the district’s 9.9-mill operating levy question the need for activities, including travel.

Issue 51 Criticism Focuses on Spending

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter
October 28, 2025
Voters will decide the fate of Issue 51, an operating levy, Nov. 4. Early voting begins today.

District Seeks First Operating Levy Since 2014

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter
October 7, 2025
Juniors Zoie Durham and Nora Kaelber, who organized the effort, and junior Gavin Marston, address students. Marston voiced his grievances with gun legislation during today's walkout in protest of gun violence.

Students Join National Protest of Gun Violence

Emma Barker, Policy Reporter
September 5, 2025
Weapon Detection Delayed

Weapon Detection Delayed

Emma Barker, Journalism I Reporter
November 22, 2024
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