The Delatorres are sending love and thoughts to you all. Mrs. Whipple, thank you for teaching Charlie and me and setting us up for success in life. You have made such an incredible impact on us!

I remember Peyton’s first parent’s night with Mrs. Whipple! I was blown away with everything that you had planned for the year. I was not sure I could stay on top of it all as a mom!
Karen-you are such an inspiration as a person, a teacher, a mother, and a Gator fan! My family would not be the same if it was not for Karen and both of her daughters helping to raise my children. You watched over crazy Cooper in aftercare! You made aftercare fun for the boys! You kept those boys moving. I loved all of the “work” you had the kids do in class, but they had no idea that they were working. You made school fun! I loved all the performances the kids do-we still sing some of them today! Peyton and Cooper enjoyed sitting with you at the gator games. Peyton adores you. She has loved visiting with you as she has grown older. I am so thankful you were her their lives. We love you so much!!!

Kelli Ross

Dear Sweet Karen, I am so honored to call you my friend. Our walks and talks were always the best part of my day. You are an amazing and inspirational woman and you helped me through some very difficult times. You and your beautiful family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love and hugs! 🙏❤️ Teresa

Mrs. Whipple, We are so incredibly blessed to have you teach our children, not only second grade, but every year after that with your presence and support at GCDS! Joselyn and Joel grew so much in your class and still in middle and high school talk about their experiences and lessons learned in your class!!! You will always live in our hearts, thank you for being the best teacher and kindest person to all! With love, the Almeida family- Joselyn, little Joel, big Joel and Yeni!

Mrs. Whipple,
I cannot even begin to explain how much you have always meant to me as a teacher and mentor. I moved to Florida from New York City after 9/11 (when I was in 2nd grade) after the worst year of my life. After visiting GCDS my family and I decided to have me repeat second grade with you instead of going to another school and I’m so incredibly thankful to have had someone as kind, patient and emotionally intelligent introducing me to my new home in Gainesville.

I still remember your unyielding ability to handle when I was acting too rambunctious (I was a bit wild). You always were able to see something in me that others couldn’t. I hope you are aware of how many second-graders lives you changed and understand how loved you are by those who were able to learn from you.

I always think about your kindness when I am dealing with others and you have always pushed me to being a better person. Thank you for being my teacher.
With love and memories, Oscar

Hi, Karen! I’m so sorry. Cancer sucks! You have been such an amazing teacher and friend to so many. You are the best teacher I have ever had the honor of knowing. When Hyla got cancer, we were forced to stay in Gainesville and the two oldest kids had to go to “normal school.” When Shaman walked into your class for the first time, he had never been in a classroom of students, and he says it was the worst day of his life. He was so shy and having everyone look at him as he came in the room was horrifying. But it turned out to be the best year ever. He thrived in your class and really came out of his shell. And you instilled so many important qualities about learning and how to study, being responsible, learning respect and compassion, creative thinking and problem solving. I believe you played a crucial role in his success in life. He is an incredible young man, independent, creative; he works for a renowned chocolatier and teaches couverture chocolate making. But he has many more ambitions! And Hyla, she is 13 years cancer free! She will be graduating from college this month, majoring in public health and the environment. You helped her become strong and independent after her long cancer treatments and being babied. I remember bringer her to class late one day after a doctor’s appointment and I was carrying her backpack. You asked, “Is there something wrong with your arm, Hyla?” I answered, “no.” And then you replied, “Then why aren’t you carrying your bag, Hyla?!” I needed some teaching too! Thank you for being touch, patient, and compassionate, and fun, and enthusiastic! You really are an amazing person, Karen, beautiful inside and out! It has been my honor to know you and my children’s blessing to have had you for a teacher. I wish you love and light and you continue on your journey…wherever it take you. God bless…

Prayers from us to Karen and family. Love, Jose and Evelyn

Thinking about Karen and her beautiful family surrounding her in love and holding you close to our hearts. With love and friendship, Joann and Chris

Karen, you have left an indelible mark on Mia, Nina and me. From Artful Dodgers to Relay for Life and garage sales, we have had the blessing of your influence on us. Hugs, prayers and love to you and your girls. We have all been so blessed by having you in our lives. Marina, Mia and Nina

Mrs. Whipple - you are so loved and changed so many of our lives in that second grade classroom and beyond! sending a million hugs your way xoxo