Frank Napier facts for kids

Frank Napier Jr. (born August 8, 1935 – died October 28, 2002) was an important leader in education. He served as the superintendent of the Paterson School District in Paterson, New Jersey. He became well-known in the 1980s because of his work with Joe Louis Clark. Clark was a famous principal at Eastside High School. It was Frank Napier who asked Mr. Clark to lead Eastside High. You might know Frank Napier from the 1989 movie Lean on Me, where he was played by actor Robert Guillaume.

Frank Napier's Journey in Education

Frank Napier Jr. dedicated his life to improving schools. He helped many students and teachers in Paterson, New Jersey. His career showed a strong commitment to education.

Early Life and Schooling

Frank Napier graduated from Paterson Central High School in 1953. This school is now known as John F. Kennedy High School. He continued his studies at William Paterson University. There, he earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees. Later, he received a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Working in Paterson Schools

Napier began his career as an elementary school teacher. He also coached sports teams. After teaching, he became a vice principal. Then, he moved up to become a principal. These roles helped him understand schools from many different angles.

In 1972, Napier was appointed Assistant Superintendent. This meant he helped manage the entire school district. Just four years later, in 1976, he made history. He became the first African-American superintendent of the Paterson school district. He held this important position until 1991.

Other Contributions and Legacy

Beyond his work as superintendent, Frank Napier was very active. He taught as a professor at William Paterson University. He also helped students through the EOF Program at Passaic County Community College. Napier was a member of several educational groups. These included the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. He was also a proud member of the William Paterson College Alumni Association.

Napier was a life member of the Paterson branch of the NAACP. He also served as the District Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America in Passaic County. He was a Baptist and was married to Margaret E. Nottingham. They had three children: David, Darren, and Dina. Frank Napier passed away on October 28, 2002, at age 67. He died due to respiratory failure.

Today, a school is named in his honor. The Dr. Frank Napier, Jr. School of Technology continues his legacy.