Hello CMCSS community! My name is Jen Whittaker and I am so excited to join Ringgold as a first grade teacher for the 2026-2027 school year! I am dual certified in General and Special Education and hold a Master's degree in Literacy. I started my educational career 10 years ago on the island of Oahu and since have had the pleasure to teach in New York and Arizona. Throughout my career, I have strived to create a community where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. My teaching philosophy is rooted in George Evans' quote, "every child can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way." With this, I develop my instruction to provide meaningful learning experiences that meet students where they are, while helping them reach their fullest potential. I look forward to partnering with families and making this a wonderful year of learning and growth.