Mary Doakes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mary Doakes
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|---|---|
| Born |
Mary Taylor
May 22, 1936 |
| Died | May 1, 2019 (aged 82) Ranson, West Virginia, U.S.
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| Other names | Mary T. Doakes, Mary Taylor Doakes |
| Occupation | Teacher, education administrator |
| Years active | 1963–1989 |
| Known for | first African-American school administrator in Jefferson County, West Virginia |
Mary Doakes (born May 22, 1936 – died May 1, 2019) was an important African-American teacher. She made history by becoming the first black school administrator in Jefferson County, West Virginia. This means she was the first African-American person to lead a school there.
Mary Doakes' Early Life and Education
Mary Taylor was born on May 22, 1936, in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Her parents were Harriet Elizabeth and Beverly D. Taylor. She was the only girl in her family, growing up with five brothers.
Mary went to Page-Jackson High School. This was a special school because it was the first public school for black students in the county. After high school, she started studying to become a teacher at Storer College.
In 1955, Storer College closed. Mary then moved her studies to Shepherd College. She graduated in 1957 with a bachelor's degree. She earned "cum laude" honors, which means she graduated with high marks.
Mary wanted to learn even more. She took classes at Michigan State University. Later, she transferred to West Virginia University. In 1963, she earned her master's degree in Elementary Administration. This degree helped her learn how to manage schools.
Mary Doakes' Teaching Career
After finishing her education, Mary Taylor began teaching. Her first job was at Eagle Avenue Elementary School. Soon after, she married Arthur C. Doakes. They had three children: Stefanie, Stefan, and Arthur Jr.
After several years, she moved to teach at her old high school, Page-Jackson High School. In 1971, Mary Doakes was promoted. She became the assistant principal at Charles Town Junior High School.
On February 25, 1974, Mary Doakes made history. She became the principal of Charles Town Junior High School. This made her the first black school administrator in Jefferson County. She worked as principal until she retired in 1989.
Mary Doakes was recognized for her important work. She was featured in a book called African Americans of Jefferson County. This book shared stories and photos of important black people from the area.
Death and Legacy
Mary Doakes passed away on May 1, 2019, in Ranson, West Virginia. A special service was held on May 11, 2019, to remember her life. Mary Doakes is remembered for breaking barriers and opening doors for others in education.
