2026 Blue KC Sporting Samaritan Honoree Elise Taylor
Central Middle School Family and Community Engagement Specialist featured the month of April
“I genuinely love working in education!” said Central Middle School Family and Community Engagement Specialist, Elise Taylor.
When someone is passionate about their role, it’s evident. And this is certainly the case for Taylor. Her infectious smile, charming personality, and warm, welcoming attitude are continually on display at Central Middle School and leave a lasting impression on everyone she interacts with throughout the day.
“As a Family and Community Engagement Specialist, I wear a lot of hats and do my best to make a difference,” said Taylor. “The heart of my role is helping bridge the gap between families, the school, volunteering, and the community. I try to make sure everyone feels connected, heard, and supported.”
Growing up, Taylor was once told, ‘don’t assume, just ask’. A simple message, but one that has resonated with her throughout her education journey. When she graduated from UMKC, those four words continued to help her determine what was next and aided in her ability to land various positions within the Kansas City, Kansas Public School system.
“My favorite part about educating youth is feeling like I’m doing my part to try to make a positive difference,” said Taylor. “One day, these same kids will be running the world! I strongly believe that academics, building character, and making connections with students and families is one of the most important parts of what I do in education. Good character helps students make better choices, build healthy relationships, and provides opportunities for students to help others grow.”
Having worked with the youth in Wyandotte Country for more than 20 years, Taylor has found ways to highlight the successes and achievements of those around her. This approach has earned respect amongst her colleagues, as she continues to thrive on a day-to-day basis.
“There are three things I like to remind my students,” said Taylor. “The first is to be kind to others. The second is that every adult was once a middle schooler, so it’s hard to fool us. And the third is that being an adult is hard. Don’t rush into it and enjoy the present!”
Upon graduating from UMKC, Taylor knew she wanted to work with kids. Even though she didn’t have all the details mapped out, she trusted her instincts, her family, and most importantly herself, and jumped in with both feet. She’s never looked back since.
“I look forward to using this opportunity (as a Blue KC Sporting Samaritan) to continue to make a positive impact and represent my community,” said Taylor. “This has been one of the most rewarding moments in my career, and I’m grateful to be recognized.”
“Elise has a heart for serving and giving to others, while never asking for anything in return,” said Taylor’s nominator, Eli Jones. “She goes above and beyond for students, families, and colleagues in our school community. In her role, Elise regularly works with students and families in need and crisis, helping them get essential services and necessities for life. She says it brings her heart joy to spend time with the ‘littles’.”
“With her enlightening personality and gracious character, it’s evident why Elise is a Blue KC Sporting Samaritan,” said Jenny Housley, Blue KC President. “The unwavering support and commitment she’s able to display at Central Middle School and within her local community is inspiring and uplifting. We are proud of her career successes to date, but know there are many more highlights and milestone moments still to come. Congratulations!”
“Choosing to work in education has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” said Taylor. “Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of students and families that have left a lasting impact on me for years to come.”
Fans are encouraged to nominate teachers and students who are making a positive impact on their schools and communities by using the form online at https://www.BlueKC.com/NominateSportingSamaritan.
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