Dr. Sandra Whitaker named as Principal of Pierce Terrace Elementary School

Mr. Brian Perry, Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Americas South Carolina/Fort Stewart Community Superintendent, is proud to announce the selection of Dr. Sandra Whitaker as the new Principal of Pierce Terrace Elementary School. With her extensive experience in education and a student-centered leadership approach, Whitaker is poised to guide the school community toward continued excellence in teaching and learning.

"We are very fortunate to have Dr. Whitaker at Pierce Terrace Elementary School," said Perry. "Her passion for student-centered education and proven track record of innovative leadership will undoubtedly inspire our students, staff, and families."

Dr. Whitaker brings a wealth of expertise to her new role, having dedicated her career to fostering dynamic educational environments that empower students to discover their potential in a global community. She began her tenure with DoDEA as an Instructional Systems Specialist for English Language Arts at DoDEA Headquarters in Virginia. Her leadership journey within DoDEA includes serving as Assistant Principal at Alconbury Middle High School in England, Acting Principal at Menwith Hill School in England, Assistant Principal and Principal at SHAPE American High School in Belgium, Principal at Wiesbaden High School in Germany—where she spearheaded the opening of DoDEA's first 21st-century-designed high school—and Professional Practice & Improvement Specialist in England.

Before joining DoDEA, Dr. Whitaker held various roles in public and private schools in the United States, including teacher, building-level administrator, and curriculum specialist. A recognized expert in literacy, she earned National Board Certification in Adolescent and Young Adulthood English Language Arts in 1999 and 2008. Dr. Whitaker has presented on literacy topics at local, state, and national conferences and has authored articles for peer-reviewed journals. She is also the author of two influential books.

A committed lifelong learner, Dr. Whitaker holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and Speech Communications from Metropolitan State College of Denver, a Master of Education and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Georgia, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia.