Terry Taylor, associate principal of Washington Academy Charter School in Texarkana, Ark., School District, was recently named the Arkansas Association of Alternative Educators Administrator of the Year.
Taylor began his teaching career in Paris, Tenn., in 1986 at his alma mater, Henry County High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science in history and physical education and a Master of Arts in education from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn., according to TASD officials.
"I am continually amazed at the incredible students and teachers who enter our doors every day ready to work hard and succeed; I am proud to serve as the principal of Washington Academy Charter School," Taylor said in a press release. "I am both honored and humbled to be named the Alternative Educators Administrator of the Year."
The associate principal played a significant role in transforming Washington Academy into a TASD district conversion charter school, which "offers junior high and high school students an alternate academic pathway to success," district spokeswoman Genia Bullock said in a press release.
"Every day, he works to empower students by providing them with a personalized educational environment that strengthens as well as accommodates each student's exceptional needs," Superintendent Dr. Becky Kesler said.
Since the implementation of the charter school in 2013, Taylor and his team of teachers and partners have guided more than 218 students to graduation.
"Mr. Taylor works to develop close relationships between students, staff, parents and community in order to eliminate barriers to student success," Kesler said.
Taylor advocates for students through the school district and through his strong community ties.
He is the pastor of Church of the Living God in Texarkana, Ark., and serves as president of the Twin Cities Ministerial Alliance. He served on the Texarkana College Board of Trustees, Teen Court Board of Directors and the Arkansas Adult Education board. He is a graduate of Leadership Texarkana.
Taylor has been married to Angela for 32 years, and they have one daughter, Terah.