For many students at Mead High School, the media center is a place they visit almost every day. Whether they are checking out a book, fixing an iPad, or asking a quick question, there is a good chance they’ve interacted with Ms. Becky Burger. As the media clerk, Ms. Burger plays an important role in helping both students and staff throughout the school.
Ms. Burger has worked at Mead for about a year and a half. Her responsibilities include managing laptops and iPads, checking library materials in and out, and troubleshooting technology when issues arise. She described her job as very busy and said multitasking is a huge part of her day. Even though it can be hectic, she enjoys the fast-paced environment and staying involved with students.
Working in a school wasn’t always part of Ms. Burger’s plan. When she was younger, she wanted to become a police officer. She grew up in northern Michigan and attended North Central Michigan College. After college, her career path shifted toward business and marketing. She worked for major media companies including ABC, NBC, and NPR, spending many years in a demanding industry that required long hours, travel, and constant deadlines.
After years in marketing, Ms. Burger realized she was ready for a change. When the pandemic delayed her return to NPR, she decided to take time off work and focus on her family. Eventually, she wanted a job that would allow her to be around her daughters and feel more connected to the community. That decision led her to apply for a position at Mead High School.
Ms. Burger grew up in a family that valued both academics and athletics. Her dad was a 2nd grade teacher for 32 years, and her mom stayed home with the family before becoming a township clerk. Ms. Burger played tennis, basketball, and skied while growing up, and she continued skiing in college. Some of her favorite childhood memories are from summers spent near Lake Michigan, where she went to the beach almost every day with friends.
Ms. Burger and her husband Tim met while working at a cable company early in their careers. Tim now works for the National Park Service as a contract specialist, helping restore and maintain important national landmarks. Ms. Burger and Tim have twin daughters, Scarlet (’27) and Liberty (’27 ), who are current juniors at Mead High School.
Over time, Ms. Burger feels her personality has grown and changed. She believes life experiences have made her more compassionate and understanding. She enjoys being someone students can talk to, even if just for a short moment during the school day.
When asked what advice she would give to students, Ms. Burger shared a message that reflects her outlook on life. She encouraged students to learn from their mistakes and not be too hard on themselves. “Everyone makes mistakes,” she said. “The important part is learning and trying to do better next time.”
Through her kindness, dedication, and willingness to help, Ms. Becky Burger has become a valued part of the Mead High School community and someone many students recognize as a friendly and reliable presence in the media center.
