Alumni Faculty Spotlight Jessica Whittingham | The Walker School

Jessica (Taylor) Whittingham ’02 began her Walker journey in 1st Grade. During her time as a student, she was active in several areas of school life, including the Student Advisory Team, and was humorously voted “Most Likely to Break Down on 75” in her Senior yearbook.

Jessica went on to earn a B.A. in History and Art History from Agnes Scott College and later received her M.A.T. from Oglethorpe University. She returned to Walker in 2012 as the Primary School Art Teacher, where she continues to nurture creativity and confidence in young Wolverines.

It’s fair to say that Jessica inherited her love and talent for the visual arts from her mother, Sherry Walker-Taylor, a beloved longtime Lower School art teacher. In 2020, a scholarship endowment was established in Ms. WT’s (as she was fondly known) memory. Presented each year by Jessica during the Upper School Honors Program, the award recognizes a senior who exemplifies excellence and creativity in the visual arts—qualities Ms. WT modeled and inspired for more than three decades.

Jessica is married to fellow Walker alum Clay Whittingham ’02, and together they have three children—James ’29, William ’32, and Christopher ’34—all proud Walker students.

Were there any teachers or mentors who had a lasting impact on you? Jean Bayer was an incredible math teacher and my advisor for all four years of High School. My husband was also in her advisory, and she attended our wedding.

How has the school changed since you were a student? How has it stayed the same? While the buildings and facilities have changed considerably in the past twenty years, the family feel of the community and school has remained the same.

Are there any traditions or events that are especially meaningful to you? I love watching returning siblings and other family members present diplomas during graduation. It makes me cry every year.

What do you enjoy most about teaching or working at the school now? I treasure the ability to help cultivate a love of art and creativity in our youngest learners. I am extremely fortunate to watch the students grow into artists during their time at Walker and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.