1923-2004

Theresa S. David was the first Black teacher to be hired permanently at a High School. Previously, Black teachers were only hired on temporary status or as subs. She shows up on the results of the Civil Service test for “secondary Spanish” in the Newark News in 1947, but other sources give her start date as 1946.

She served as assistant superintendent, principal of Arts High, and a teacher at Arts High, throughout her career. She ended her career as principal of Vailsburg High.

Born in East Orange, she attended Montclair State College and lived in Maplewood for many years.

Bibliography

“Theresa S. David, 81, assistant school superintendent” Star Ledger, March 5, 2004

“Educator says farewell to career she helped open to Blacks” Star Ledger Feb 15, 1988

“The Principal’s View: Miss Davis IS Arts High” Star Ledger Mar 24, 1968

“Schools official wins permanent post in Newark” Star Ledger Jan 24, 1974

“School jobs list drawn” Newark News Jun 17, 1947

Montclair State college yearbook, 1946

Arts High Yearbook, 1968

“With the Teachers” Club World News 1956.