Staff Spotlight: River Taylor

We’re proud to spotlight River Taylor this month. He is a passionate and dedicated educator who currently serves as a Resource Teacher at Walker Elementary and provides districtwide support as an Educational Specialist. River’s commitment to his students and colleagues is deeply appreciated across all four school sites.

River was born and raised right here in Fortuna. A graduate of Fortuna High School (Class of 2017), he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Management with double honors from UC Davis. He began working in education in 2022 as an aide in the Resource Room at Ambrosini and quickly found his calling in special education. Since then, he has taken on several roles—from aide to long-term substitute, to Special Day Class teacher, and now as a certified educator working both in classrooms and behind the scenes to support students with special needs. Currently, he is earning his Master of Arts in Education from Cal Poly Humboldt, with a research focus on twice-exceptional (2e) learners—students who are both gifted and have disabilities.

River’s principal, Helen Nelson, shares: “River makes connecting with the students a number one priority. He is consistently positive and always makes the best of a situation. He is not only a great resource teacher, but a great colleague. He helps out at a moment’s notice, and we really appreciate him!”

When asked what he enjoys most about his job, River says:

“What I value most about being a teacher is the opportunity to build connections. Children are so full of joy and wonder. I’m honored to be both their teacher and their advocate, collaborating with staff across campus to help each student thrive.”

River’s own experience as a student in the district gives him a unique perspective. He attended South Fortuna Elementary, Fortuna Middle School, and participated in the district’s GATE program, which he credits with shaping how he approaches learning and teaching. In fact, 11 of his current colleagues were once his teachers—something he describes as an honor and full-circle moment.

A fun fact about River: he still remembers the impact of the GATE program run by Mrs. Jana Reveles, and he carries those lessons into his classroom today. He’s a homegrown educator who gives back every day to the community that helped raise him.

Thank you, River, for your positivity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to student success. We’re lucky to have you on our team! 💛