On Thursday, the Jefferson County Board of Education declared a vacancy on the board. The seat, held by Dean Taylor until his untimely death last weekend. The board has 30 days to fill the vacancy, although the state superintendent may extend that time.

The seat will be filled by a vote of the four remaining board members. Taylor’s term will end in November of 2020 so the person the board appoints will serve for more than four years.

Interested parties can send a letter of intent and a resume by April 15. Applications should be sent to: Ms. Jacqueline A. Smith, President, Jefferson County Board of Education, 2100 18th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35209.

One candidate for the position has already thrown her hat into the ring. Sherry Webb, Taylor’s mother has decided to apply for the position in order to honor her son’s memory and continue the work he started.

“I’ve been encouraged to run to continue Dean Taylor’s dreams and plans for this system,” Webb said. “He was doing a great job, and I want to continue his work.”