Instead of resigning, the principal of North Atlanta High School is getting a raise.
Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Erroll Davis announced Monday that Principal Howard “Gene” Taylor will move into a job as the executive director for the city school system’s north region.
Taylor’s sudden resignation last week had sparked an outcry from parents who wondered why he was leaving after just 11 months at North Atlanta High.
Taylor had posted a video message to students Friday saying his departure was “necessary and appropriate,” but he didn’t further explain his planned move to become principal of Berkmar High in Gwinnett County.
“APS is pleased that we were able to retain a talented employee. We will continue to update the community with details about the transition as they become available,” Davis wrote in a letter posted on North Atlanta High’s website.
As North Region director, Taylor will oversee about a quarter of the 100 schools in the Atlanta system, including North Atlanta High.
Taylor took over at North Atlanta High after Davis removed former Principal Mark MyGrant and his administrative team last October. Davis said at the time that the school’s academic performance led to their dismissals, and an internal investigation of the school is pending.
North Atlanta High’s interim principal will be Curtis Douglass, who is currently an assistant principal at the school, Davis said.
Taylor replaces North Region Executive Director Tony Burks, who will become a principal mentor.
About the Author
