Caldwell elementary principal Taylor Raney was named director of certification and professional standards on Tuesday by the State Department of Education.

Raney replaces Christina Linder, who recently left the department to accept a position as associate dean of Idaho State University’s College of Education. Linder held her State Department position since January 2007.

Raney’s first day is Dec. 23. His responsibilities include overseeing teacher and administrator certification, Idaho’s teacher effectiveness programs and the Professional Standards Commission.

Raney has served as the principal at Wilson Elementary in the Caldwell School District since 2008. He is a member of Professional Standards Commission, representing elementary school principals.

“Taylor Raney has a proven track record of leadership in the Caldwell School District,” said Superintendent Tom Luna. “As a member of the Professional Standards Commission, he also understands the importance of professional conduct in the teaching profession and the critical work the commission does every day to help improve the craft of teaching. He will be a great addition to our team at the State Department of Education.”

While in Caldwell, Raney took on roles as the district testing coordinator and gained leadership experience as part of the Caldwell Academy of Leadership. Raney previously worked as a teacher in the Boise School District.

Raney earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho, and master’s degrees in educational leadership and curriculum and instruction from Northwest Nazarene University. He is currently working on his Ph.D. in educational administration.

“I am excited about this opportunity to work for all students and teachers in Idaho,” said Raney, who will make $75,005 per year in his new position.

Raney and his wife, Meghan, have two daughters.