Alexander Taffel

Dr. Alexander Taffel was the second principal of the Bronx [High School of Science], a long-time physics teacher and author of three textbooks in Physics. He is a recipient of the NBC Award for Public Service. He is most famous for his tenure as principal of the Bronx High [School of Science], during which he nurtured the institution and its international reputation. He retired in 1978.
He died at his home of a stroke.

Early life

Taffel came to New York when he was 3. He graduated from City College with a degree in mathematics in 1929 and later received a master's in physics from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in science education from New York University.

Career

Before becoming a full time administrator, Taffel was a physics teacher who had become the chairman of the science department at James [Monroe High School (New York City)|James Monroe High School] in the Bronx. Later he became principal of Haaren High School in Manhattan.

Principal of the Bronx High School of Science (1958-1978)

Transfer to modern facilities, teacher strike, student strike, 50th anniversary

Legacy

The Alexander Taffel Library at the Bronx High School of Science is named after Dr. Taffel.