West Community,
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Robert A. Baines, former principal at Manchester High School West from 1980-1999 and Mayor for the City of Manchester from 2000-2006.
Bob dedicated his life to strengthening our community and expanding opportunities for Manchester’s students. His passion, leadership, and unwavering belief in the potential of our young people shaped countless initiatives and left a lasting impact across the city. His contributions will continue to influence Manchester for generations to come. Most recently, Mr. Baines was the leading founder of West's STEAM Ahead Program and he was instrumental in pushing for the renovation (completed last spring) of the West High School Auditorium which appropriately bears his name. Mr. Baines' life of service to his community is a model for all to aspire to and follow. We will miss him around the halls of West High School, but he will never be forgotten.