Welcome to Tesnatee Gap Elementary School!
It is truly an honor to serve as the Principal of a school that has always felt like home. My journey in the White County School System has allowed me to experience our schools through many different roles—from classroom teacher to Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, and now Principal. Each step has strengthened my love for this school, our students, and our incredible community.
I am a proud White County graduate and have spent my entire educational career serving White County Schools. During my 17 years in the classroom, I had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten, First Grade, Second Grade, and Third Grade. I then spent five years as the Instructional Coach at Tesnatee Gap Elementary before serving as Assistant Principal. These experiences have shaped my belief that every child can succeed when surrounded by caring adults who work together with a shared purpose.
At TGES, we are One Team, moving in One Direction. Together we SOAR. Every Falcon, Every Day. Those words represent more than a slogan—they reflect our commitment to working as one team of students, staff, families, and community members to provide the very best opportunities for every child, every single day. When we support one another, celebrate each other's successes, and keep students at the center of every decision, there is no limit to what our Falcons can achieve.
I believe that education is about more than academics. It is about helping children discover their strengths, build confidence, develop character, and become the best version of themselves. Watching others learn, grow, and succeed has always been my greatest passion, and I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with our families in that important work.
My family and I are proud to call White County home. My husband, our children, and I reside in Cleveland, and we are proud to be White County Warriors. It is a privilege to serve the community that has given so much to me throughout my life.
Thank you for entrusting us with your children. I look forward to partnering with you as we make this an outstanding year at Tesnatee Gap Elementary School. My door is always open, and I encourage you to reach out if there is ever anything I can do to support your family.
Mrs. Erica Whitlock
Principal
Tesnatee Gap Elementary School