Grace Taylor Named Acting ACPS Superintendent in Alexandria
Alexandria schools veteran takes over following the early retirement of Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt
Photo: ACPS
Alexandria, VA – Dr. Grace Taylor, a graduate of Alexandria City Public Schools and the chief of staff since 2023, has been named acting superintendent of ACPS.
The appointment took effect Aug. 12 after the Alexandria City School Board accepted an agreement allowing Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt to begin retirement earlier than planned. Taylor will lead the division until a permanent superintendent is hired and begins work.
Taylor attended George Mason Elementary and George Washington Middle School before graduating from what was then T.C. Williams High School in 1987. Her ACPS career has included principalships at George Washington Middle School, Minnie Howard School and John Adams Elementary School, along with leadership roles at Alexandria City High School and in the superintendent’s office.
Since September 2025, she also has helped oversee Facilities and Operations while ACPS filled its chief operating officer position.
The School Board said Taylor’s experience, familiarity with the school division and deep Alexandria roots will provide steady leadership during the transition. Kay-Wyatt retired after 30 years in public education.
