Sarah Taylor
Meet Mrs. Sarah Taylor
Hello! I am Mrs. Taylor. At Marshall, I am head of the English department, the upper school English teacher, dual-enrollment college English instructor through Blue Mountain Christian University, ACT improvement coordinator, and the Mock Trial coach. I am a National Board Certified English teacher and certified home economics instructor.
My Education and Experience
I graduated with a B.A. in Communication from Mississippi State University (Go Dawgs!), followed by my M.A. in English in 2007. My professional background has been diverse and incredibly rewarding. Before stepping into a traditional classroom, I worked as a public relations director for a Humane Society and the Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary. My first official teaching role was as a drug and alcohol instructor at the Marshall County Correctional Facility. Even after leaving that full-time position, I continued teaching Literature and Creative Writing to inmates on Tuesday nights, which remains one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.
Since leaving prison (as a teacher, of course!), I spent four years as the lead English teacher right here at Marshall Academy. More recently, I taught English I, II, IV, dual-enrollment Comp I, and family/consumer science at Blue Mountain High School, where I also served as the senior sponsor and coordinator of the honors program. Over the years, I have also enjoyed teaching college courses as an adjunct instructor for various institutions, including Northeast Mississippi Community College, Northwest Mississippi Community College, Blue Mountain College, Holmes Community College, and the University of Phoenix.
My Teaching Philosophy
I know that I have a reputation as a “tough” teacher when it comes to coursework, but it is a reputation I have proudly earned. If I am tough, it is only because I want to see the students of Marshall Academy reach their highest goals. We have a student body full of limitless potential, and I truly believe students will only reach that potential by being challenged. Above all, never forget: I am always available to help.
My Life Outside of School
While I am originally from Ripley, MS, I have proudly called Holly Springs home for over 18 years. I am married to Jason Taylor, who is the current head of school and a former coach and history teacher here at Marshall Academy. We have two wonderful children: Annie (13) and James Travis, or "JT/Bubba" (11). My identical twin sister, Dr. Elizabeth Smith, is a local veterinarian, and together we raise my six nephews (all MA students) like one big, crazy family. Our home is completed by our two dogs: a chocolate Labrador named Woodrow, who is not very good but who is very smart, and a rescue St. Bernard mix named Buck, who is the world's best boy. I am also an active member of Christ Episcopal Church in Holly Springs.
When I have free time, you can find me cooking for my family, reading, doing hand embroidery, tackling DIY house projects, or watching true crime television.
Contact Me
If you ever need me, please contact me at the school at 662-252-3449. My email is [email protected]. Never hesitate to call or write; I will answer as promptly as possible and do whatever I can to help you succeed!
