2024 Black Excellence Award: Taye Spears

Our very own Assistant Superintendent of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity, La’Shawanta ‘Taye’ Spears Hardy, was recently honored by the Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators (ORABSE) with the Black Excellence Award during their annual Black & Fabulous Gala. Taye Spears was recognized for her leadership, her extraordinary work, and contributions to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in education.

Taye Spears has been an integral part of our David Douglas School District for over 20 years, starting her journey at Gilbert Heights Elementary in 2001. In 2014, she became our Fir Ridge Assistant Principal. In 2017, she became the Alice Ott Assistant Principal. 

Her dedication and hard work led to her appointment as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director in the Spring of 2021. In July 2024, she was appointed Assistant Superintendent of DEI, a role where she continues supporting students, staff, families, and our community. 

Taye’s dedication to DEI has significantly impacted the educational community, and her recognition underscores the importance of her work in creating a more inclusive learning environment. She is an exemplary professional and a valuable asset to the education profession. 

Congratulations to our Assistant Superintendent of DEI, Mrs. Taye Spears, on this well-deserved award.

ORABSE is the only organization in Oregon that focuses on supporting and serving Black educators by providing professional development, curriculum support, advocacy and career support, leadership, education conferences, affinity-based gatherings, and networking events.