Taylor to seek re-election in 2016

Taylor-TPainDeKalb Superintendent Hugh Taylor sits for an exclusive interview with Southern Torch Political Correspondent Tyler Pruett on Tuesday. Taylor announced today that he will be seeking re-election in 2016.

Rainsville, Ala. - DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Hugh Taylor (R-Rainsville) announced today that he will seek a second term as superintendent of DeKalb County Schools. Although he is the incumbent, Taylor is actually the second Republican to officially announce his intent to run for the position in 2016. Dr. Jason Barnett (R-Rainsville), an administrator at Collinsville High School, announced back in July that he would be running as a Republican for DeKalb County Superintendent in 2016. 

Taylor's decision to run for re-election is big news in DeKalb. As a result of Barnett's early announcement and the lack of an initial response from Taylor or a firm commitment until today that he would be running for re-election, many were uncertain as to his intentions and future political plans. Taylor said he needed to be still and listen to God. He said he spent significant time praying about the matter, and feels called to continue to serve in his capacity as superintendent.

“By all measures, our school system is getting better," Taylor said.  "Today, our schools are safer, graduating more students, and operating in a more cost effective manner."

For the full story and exclusive interview with Hugh Taylor, pick up a copy of the print edition of our weekly newspaper on Friday. Taylor sat down with Southern Torch today for an exclusive in-depth interview to discuss his decision to run for re-election. In a very candid interview, Taylor discussed his tenure thus far as superintendent, reflected on some the challenges he's faced and talked about his plans for the future if he is re-elected to another term.

This Friday's article with Superintendent Taylor will be the first in a Southern Torch exclusive series profiling each candidate in the DeKalb Superintendent race. Check out our full story and interview with Hugh Taylor in Friday's print edition of the Southern Torch.

Installment two of the series will be with Dr. Jason Barnett, Taylor's GOP opponent and will premier next week. Southern Torch is sitting down with Dr. Barnett for an all-access interview later this week. Pick up your copy of Southern Torch at newsstands this Friday or contact 256-638-4040 for subscription information.