Dr. Tara Taupier was named as the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) superintendent in an August 28 press release. The announcement followed the sudden June 30 resignation of former superintendent David Yoshihara and the subsequent appointment of interim superintendents Dr. Walt Buster and Dr. Valerie Pitts. Yoshihara has since been hired as assistant superintendent at the North Clackamas School District in Oregon.

“A superintendent works closely with the board and ensures all facets of the district are running smoothly and effectively,” Taupier wrote in an email. “I would say I am very excited by the opportunity to serve the district in this role.”

Taupier formerly served as the TUHSD assistant superintendent of education services. Before that, she was the district senior director of educational services, from 2012 to 2015; an assistant principal at Redwood, from 2011 to 2012; and a social studies teacher at Redwood and Tam, from 2002 to 2011.

“The District has no plans to fill her current position as Dr. Taupier will retain primary responsibility for curriculum and serve as the District’s chief academic officer,” the press release read.

Taupier’s appointment came after districtwide concerns over growing debt brought on by steadily increasing enrollment in TUHSD schools. Her appointment — and the consolidation of her previous and new positions — will save the district the cost of recruiting and paying another administrator. Taupier’s salary will increase from $189,000 to $225,000.

“I will certainly have my hands full and am committed to serving the district well,” Taupier wrote.

Photo by Ethan Swope