The Bradford man has been in education for 40 years, the last seven spent as principal in Dexter. He was assistant principal at Central High School in Corinth for 17 years prior to his position in SAD 46.

"When I came to Dexter, I told the interview committee I would stay from three to five years and I've stayed seven because I've loved it here," Bailey said Friday. "I love the people, the kids, the challenging job, but age is creeping up on me and it's time for me to hang it up."

While principal, Bailey helped lead Dexter Regional High School from its probation status to full accreditation with the Commission on Public Secondary Schools.

He was instrumental in winning a $150,000 grant for the school for comprehensive reform. The grant was to help align the school's newly developed core curriculum with the Maine Learning Results, provide professional development opportunities for the staff and provide students with individual support and personalized learning to help them reach their highest potential.

He also was at the helm when Maine Education Commissioner Susan Gendron recognized the school as one of 25 most improved schools in the state.

"This has been a great place to work and it will always be a place of special remembrance," Bailey said of the Dexter school.

Bailey, who will turn 62 when he retires, said he plans to do a little traveling and some writing.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Monday, April 03, 2006 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."