Crestview Preparatory School Appoints New Head of School

The Board of Trustees of Crestview Preparatory School has appointed Baudelia Chavez Taylor to be Head of School effective July 1, 2014.

In their announcement to the Crestview Community, Board Chair Albert Lau and Search Committee Co-Chairs Julie Park and Vas Sarma stated, “It was clear that Baudelia Chavez Taylor had the leadership experience, drive, and knowledge of elementary education that would best serve Crestview now and in the future. We look forward to welcoming Baudelia into our Crestview community and are excited for the bright future of our wonderful school.”

Baudelia currently serves as the Director of Early Childhood Programs at the highly respected Center for Early Education in West Hollywood, a position she has held since 2009. Prior to her administrative position, she was a preschool and elementary master teacher at the Center for eight years. During her tenure Baudelia has served on and led numerous committees and task forces from Faculty Evaluation to Greening & Sustainability, notably developing the school’s Edible Garden program and Green Thumbs Parent volunteer group. These endeavors have highlighted her collaborative leadership style, which focuses on cross-constituent teaming that fosters community and commitment to the school.

Marie Kidd, current Head of School, whole-heartedly endorses the appointment of Baudelia Chavez Taylor. “As difficult as my decision to leave this community has been, I am delighted the Crestview Board has entrusted the leadership of Crestview to the loving care of Baudelia. She brings to Crestview a dedication and expertise in education that promises the continued strength and growth of our program. I am confident that the school and, most importantly, the children of Crestview are in excellent hands.”

Colleagues speak highly of Baudelia as both a teacher and a leader. She is described time and time again as someone who works tirelessly to serve the children and her school. Baudelia was drawn to Crestview by its commitment to a balanced educational approach that equally values academic excellence and a respect for childhood.

As the new Head-elect, Baudelia Taylor said, “I am both honored and excited to be joining the Crestview family. As I begin my work and journey at Crestview, I am confident that my experience with a comparable student body size, familiarity with the area’s school market and understanding of elementary education will serve me well in my new capacity. It is my hope to continue the work Marie Kidd has begun and move the school to its next iteration as an independent school.”

Baudelia and her husband Brett live with their two children, an eighth grade son and fifth grade daughter, in Pasadena.

Crestview Preparatory School, 140 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada, (818) 952-0925 or visit www.crestviewprep.org.