Carolyn Stanford Taylor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Carolyn Stanford Taylor
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| 27th Superintendent of Public Instruction of Wisconsin | |
| In office January 7, 2019 – July 5, 2021 |
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| Governor | Tony Evers |
| Preceded by | Tony Evers |
| Succeeded by | Jill Underly |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1957/1958 (age 67–68) Marks, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Political party | Independent |
| Education | University of Wisconsin, Madison (BA, MA) |
Carolyn Stanford Taylor is an American educator who played a big role in Wisconsin's schools. She served as the 27th Wisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction from 2019 to 2021. This important job means she was the top leader for all public schools in the state.
A special part of her story is that she was the first African American person to hold the position of Wisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction. She was chosen for this role by Wisconsin's Governor-elect Tony Evers in December 2018. Before becoming Governor, Tony Evers was also the Superintendent. Carolyn Stanford Taylor did not run for the position again in 2021. For 17 years before becoming Superintendent, she worked as the Assistant State Superintendent for the Wisconsin Division for Learning Support.
Early Life and Education
Carolyn Stanford Taylor was born and grew up in Marks, Mississippi. She and her brothers and sisters were among the first African American families to attend schools that were previously only for white students. This was an important step in making schools fair for everyone.
She went to the University of Wisconsin, Madison. In 1978, she earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education, which taught her how to be a teacher for young students. The next year, in 1979, she earned a master's degree in educational leadership and policy analysis. This degree helped her learn how to lead and manage schools.
Career in Education
Before becoming the State Superintendent, Carolyn Stanford Taylor worked for twenty years in the Madison Metropolitan School District. During this time, she was a classroom teacher and a principal. She led Marquette and Lincoln elementary schools, and also Wright Middle School.
She also made history as the first African-American president of the local teachers' union. This union works to support teachers and improve schools. Before her appointment as State Superintendent, she was also the first female African-American to be an assistant state superintendent. In this role, she oversaw several important teams. These included the Special Education Team, which helps students with special learning needs. She also supervised the Student Services/Prevention and Wellness Team, which focuses on keeping students safe and supported. Additionally, she oversaw residential schools for students who are blind or visually impaired in Janesville and for students who are deaf or hard of hearing in Delavan.
Special Recognition
In 2018, Carolyn Stanford Taylor received the Virginia Hart Special Recognition award. This award is given by the Wisconsin Department of Administration to female state employees. It honors women who are making a positive difference through their service to the state of Wisconsin.
