Executive Director of Secondary Schools, Columbia Public Schools
Adam Taylor has lived and invested in Columbia his entire life. He’s a product of the Columbia Public Schools, Mizzou, and William Woods University where he earned a doctorate in educational leadership. He attributes achieving that unplanned goal to others’ belief in his ability to lead and encouraging him to do so.
Adam launched his career in education as a business teacher at Hickman High School in 2011. By 2020, he became principal of Battle High School, guiding it through the challenges of the pandemic.
Perhaps he was the ideal person to lead Battle at a time when the safety of students, teachers, and staff was paramount. While in college, Adam was the victim of a brutal robbery and assault in a downtown Columbia parking garage. That experience led him and his family to found Keep Columbia Safe which worked to spur the installation of a new camera system downtown. He was a strong advocate of returning police officers to CPS high schools after the pandemic.
“Adam was there to tirelessly advocate for the safety of his students and staff and give the (City) Council a first-hand account of the positive impact the officers in the schools have on their school communities,” says Jill Schlude, Columbia Police Department chief.
For Adam, the strength of Columbia’s schools is integral to the strength of the community. He knows that just as was the case with his own life, today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders. How they grow will determine the future of Columbia.
“One of my guiding values is empathy and grace,” Adam says. “I believe we’re all working towards becoming the best versions of ourselves and to do this, we must take risks. Taking risks means there are times we will fail, and having someone provide grace and empathy during these times allows personal growth.”
“His commitment to excellence and passion for education have set him apart as a true leader among his peers,” says Helen Porter, CPS chief school officer. “Dr. Taylor’s innovative approach to student learning has not only garnered recognition within our organization but has also positively impacted the broader community.”
Age: 40
Fun Fact:
Adam doesn’t like to get a new pair of shoes dirty. He may leave them in the box for weeks or months before he wears them.
