Taylor Ray, the school’s namesake, was born in Indiana and left home at the age of 13 to seek his fortune.  Ray was a voracious reader and a self-educated man.  Having his children and the other children of the area receive the best possible education was a goal of Taylor Ray.  He helped start the school district in 1898 and served as treasurer and president of the school board while raising funds for the first schoolhouse.  Taylor Ray also hired the first teacher for the district.  He was known as an innovative and courageous man in every sense of the word.

Today, Taylor Ray Elementary strives to maintain our founder’s dedication to children and learning.  The instructional program provides a strong academic focus along with instruction in the fine arts and social development.  Varieties of instructional methods are used to accelerate instruction at all grade levels.

The use of manipulatives, cooperative learning, and an emphasis on problem-solving strategies is an integral part of the learning.

Technology is an important part of the instructional program at Taylor Ray.  A 27-station networked computer lab, computer-accessible library catalog system, and classroom network, Waterford Early Learning systems in PK-2nd grade, and student-conducted daily announcements on closed circuit TV also enhance student access to technology.

After school clubs such as the Media Club, Garden Club, Student Council, and Lab Rats provide students enrichment and leadership opportunities to their academic day.  We seek to educate the whole child and provide maximum growth as we prepare students to meet the challenges of the secondary schools.

An active PTO supports the school program through financial support.  The PTO organizes a Mardi Gras celebration and carnival as well as other fund-raising activities.  The PTO supports the teachers and students by funding field trips, incentives, and other special projects.