Flanagan cherishes her Madison birthright
MADISON – Jennifer Flanagan can claim the rare distinction of native Madisonian.
“Madison is a great city for all stages of life,” Flanagan said. “Living in Madison as a kid and now as an adult has been remarkable. There’s something to be said about those who were raised in Madison and then we come back after college and keep Madison as our ‘forever home.'”
After graduating from Bob Jones High School, Flanagan earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education at University of Alabama. Returning to Madison, she taught English at Bob Jones for five years and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership at University of Alabama at Birmingham.
In 2015, Flanagan started working as Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at James Clemens High School. She also is coordinator for advanced-placement courses.
Different cultures and life experiences keep Madison vibrant. “I encourage new students to get involved (to) gain new ideas from different areas and grow as a community,” she said.
“I was blessed to have a Madison City education. Now working in the school system, I know without a doubt this is the best educational opportunity for my children,” Flanagan said.
Jennifer and husband Michael Flanagan are parents of three-month-old son McKinley. Their pets are Charlie, a chocolate lab, and Ellie, a lab mix. “Charlie and Ellie have been like children to us long before we had our child McKinley,” Jennifer said.
Growing up in the 1980s with her father as radio host for WZYP, she was surrounded by music and the radio constantly. “I love any and all types of music, but I will have to say the 1990s’ genre of music is my absolute favorite.”
Old Black Bear is, no doubt, her favorite Madison restaurant. “I love the atmosphere, hometown feel and location,” she said. “Their food is outstanding, and you can never go wrong by adding pimento cheese to any of their menu items.”
Running and an active lifestyle are important to Flanagan. “Madison has some great scenic areas perfect for running. My husband and I love to take the dogs to Rainbow Mountain (for) a manageable hike that the whole family can enjoy.”
