By The Oakland Post
Jeffrey Taylor, a longtime educator and community worker, has been named the new principal of McClymonds High School in West Oakland. The public was invited to meet him on July 22 ahead of the opening of the school year on Aug. 12.
Taylor was selected with the help of a committee of parents, teachers, staff and community partners. He began his tenure on July 1.
He has deep roots in West Oakland, having attended Clawson Elementary School and began his career in education teaching at Lowell Middle School, going on to Frick and moving up to principal. He later spent time at the OAL office as a middle school sports coordinator followed by a stint at RISE Elementary School and a year as principal at San Lorenzo High School.
He was educated at Vista Community College, New College of California and National University. Before his career in education, Taylor worked in Oakland’s Parks and Recreation Department and the YMCA.
“My goal is to ensure that all children are healthy, happy and safe, so they may learn as much as they can” Taylor said in a statement. “One of the most important aspects of my work here at Mack will be building strong relationships with students, teachers and families. You’ll find me in the hallways, classrooms and at special activities. My passion has been and always will be educating students.”
Vanessa Sifuentes of High School Network praised the selection of Taylor as principal.
“Mr. Taylor has roots in Oakland, specifically West Oakland and is excited to return in service of a community about which he already cares deeply, Sifuentes said in a statement. “He is a leader with a depth of experience and an undeniable passion for serving Oakland youth.”
This article originally appeared in the Oakland Post.
