Position/Department: Superintendent of Schools
Joined District: July 1, 2013
Welcome to the Ripon Area School District Website
As the superintendent, I invite you to discover the district. Whether you are a long time community member and supporter of the district; a family with students enrolled in one of our schools; or perhaps someone considering enrolling your child, the district has much to offer you. Our vision as one of Wisconsin’s finest school districts is to foster excellence in all through innovation.
From excellent academics to rich arts and exciting athletics, the Ripon Area School District provides something for everyone. The information found on this website represents just one way to stay informed. You can like us on Facebook, stay up-to-date with Twitter, catch up with our regular articles, read the district newsletters, or attend one of the informal chats held at a local coffee house.
The strength of the district rests in the close connection maintained with community members. In fact, it is part of our mission: inspiring learners, engaging the community, enriching the world. In addition to the regular communication paths mentioned above, I invite you to call, email or stop by to visit. You can also talk to me at one of the many district and community events. I look forward to partnering with you to continue to provide the very best educational opportunities to all students in the Ripon Area School District.
Why Did I Choose Ripon?
Ripon is a beautiful community willing to innovate, yet maintains a strong sense of pride in its history and respect for its unique past. I proudly serve as the Superintendent of the Ripon Area School District. In this district, I work in partnership with a strong community dedicated to preparing students to be college and career ready. The district focuses on best practices in education, fiscal responsibility and the relentless pursuit of high achievement for all students.
I am a Wisconsin native having grown up in Wisconsin Rapids. My husband, Tyler, is also from Wisconsin Rapids and we are both graduates of the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire (UWEC). Our five children, ages 11-19, attend Ripon schools. Rachel is a graduate of Ripon High School pursuing an education at UW Oshkosh, Katelyn is a senior at Ripon High School, Jordan is a sophomore at Ripon High School, Isaac is in 8th grade at Catalyst Charter Middle School, and Mackenzie is a 6th grader at Catalyst Charter Middle School. I have a vested interest in the quality of the district. I chose to pursue a career here in Ripon so my own children would benefit from the rich tradition and the strong programs. In addition to having one of the best school districts in the state, Ripon is a wonderful community to raise a family. I feel very fortunate that my family now calls Ripon home.
About the Superintendent
Prior to joining the Ripon team, I taught in Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, Stevens Point and Middleton public schools. I served as a principal in Grantsburg, curriculum coordinator in Whitewater, and chief academic officer in Green Bay. I completed my undergraduate degree in elementary education with a minor in psychology from UWEC and hold master’s degrees from Marian College and Viterbo University. I received my Ph.D. from Cardinal Stritch in 2012. Currently, I hold Wisconsin licenses as a teacher, principal, director of instruction and superintendent.
Education is truly a passion for me. My work as a dance instructor in high school led me to pursue my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education. Through college, I worked with children as a lifeguard, religious instructor, and pediatric surgical nurse aid. Seeing people of all ages learning and growing really is what inspires me. In addition to teaching students, I have been fortunate to instruct master level courses and support new administrators through their leadership practicums.
When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to be outdoors gardening, camping, kayaking, hiking, and biking. Wisconsin provides many great opportunities to pursue these hobbies.
Thank you for visiting this website. I hope the information contained in the site assists you in learning more about the Ripon Area School District and each of our impressive schools. Please consider attending one of the many events and programs offered throughout the year. If you require additional information or have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 920-748-4600 or email me at whitrockm@ripon.k12.wi.us.
Go Tigers!
Dr. Mary Whitrock
