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RAS welcomes Mrs. Whitenack as principal
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
That quote by Nelson Mandela is a favorite of Tonja R. Whitenack, an educator for more than 15 years who is taking the helm as principal at Ralph Askins School.
She succeeds Dr. Claudia Styles, who has accepted a position at the central office for Fayetteville City Schools.
“We are excited to have someone with Mrs. Whitenack’s life and educational experiences to lead RAS,” said Bill W. Hopkins, Jr., director of Fayetteville City Schools. “We feel she will help us continue to move our students forward academically. She is a welcome addition to the Tiger family.”
Whitenack has served as a classroom teacher, reading coach and assistant principal. She is also an adjunct professor for Athens State University. To say that she loves the art of teaching would be an understatement.
“I am humbled and completely honored to be a part of the Tiger family,” Whitenack said. “I knew from the moment I spoke to our Director of Schools, Bill Hopkins, that this school system was something spectacular. Then, I walked into the doors of Ralph Askins, and I knew immediately that this school was a complete jewel. The dedication to the students at RAS was authentically and extremely evident.
“My goal is to work alongside the teachers and staff to continue the phenomenal work they have already begun,” she added. “RAS is where learners become leaders!”
Prior to becoming an educator, Whitenack served her country in the United States Army. She comes from a long line of military service; however, she was the first female in her family to join.
She originally hails from Waco, Texas, and now resides in nearby Huntsville, Ala., with her husband of 30 years, James. She is also mother to a daughter, who is a petty officer in the U.S. Navy, and a 14-year-old Shih Tzu, who is the actual ruler of the household.
No profession is possible without first a teacher, and Whitenack is immensely proud to be part of the profession that makes all others possible.