Valdosta City Schools is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Lauren Whittaker as the new Director of the Georgia Multi-Tiered System of Supports (GaMTSS). In this new role, Dr. Whittaker will be responsible for the leadership, development, and implementation of a comprehensive, data-driven multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) across the district.
As Director, Dr. Whittaker will ensure alignment between academic, behavioral, and well-being supports to improve student outcomes and remove barriers to learning. She will collaborate with district and school leaders, provide professional development, and monitor implementation fidelity to enhance student success. Additionally, she will oversee the implementation of Positive Behavior and Intervention Supports (PBIS), providing guidance to schools, facilitating training, and supporting school-based PBIS teams. Through these efforts, Dr. Whittaker will promote a data-driven approach to behavioral interventions, coordinate professional learning opportunities, and ensure schools have the necessary resources and support to sustain effective PBIS implementation.
Dr. Whittaker’s dedication to education and student success is evident in her remarkable career. She began her journey in 2006 as a fourth-grade teacher at North Brooks Elementary and has since served in various roles, including educator, academic coach, and assistant principal at S.L. Mason Elementary School. Most recently, she served as Interim Principal at S.L. Mason, where her leadership helped to drive academic excellence and support student growth.
Her commitment to professional growth is evident through her Doctorate in Public Administration, along with certifications in Performance-Based Building and System-Level Educational Leadership. Dr. Whittaker has also earned endorsements in Gifted, ESOL, Instructional Technology, STEM, Teaching Support and Coaching, and PBIS.
"I am truly honored and excited to lead the Valdosta City Schools GaMTSS program. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated educators, students, and families to ensure success for all students across the district," said Dr. Whittaker.
Although Dr. Whittaker will transition into her new role as Director of GaMTSS in July, she will remain the Interim Principal of S.L. Mason Elementary School for the remainder of the current school year, ensuring continued leadership and support for the school community.
We are confident that under Dr. Whittaker’s leadership, the Georgia MTSS program will continue to thrive, fostering an environment where all students have the support they need to succeed. Please join us in congratulating her as she steps into this important leadership role.