Dr. Hopper is an accomplished educator with extensive experience as a secondary school leader. He began his educational career 23 years ago as an English teacher. He has proudly served 16 years as a head principal. In both capacities, he has led many initiatives to forward academic improvement and student opportunities.
“Dr. Hopper demonstrates the leadership qualities needed to foster the continued success of GCAA students. We are excited to continue our work ahead with a strong academic and arts culture,” said Dr. Candice Carter-Oliver, Confluence Academies Chief Executive Officer.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Grand Center Arts Academy community and its diverse culture of both academic and artistic excellence,” Dr. Hopper said. His tenure will include a strong emphasis on arts integration. “We will do even more to bring music, theater, visual art, and dance into all core academic areas of instruction while recruiting top art students in the St. Louis metropolitan region.”
Dr. Hopper noted that a clear vision for GCAA students and staff in all grades will enable the middle and high schools to work more seamlessly together. To that end, he will spend the next several weeks meeting with school staff, families and community partners, and planning for the upcoming fully in-person school year. "The pandemic has left many students and families feeling disconnected from our school community, and connection is a critical part of the success of any school. Our GCAA staff and I will visit all our families in a safe manner to personally welcome them back this August. I look forward to a bright year ahead for our students and families."
Dr. Hopper earned his Ph.D. in educational leadership from Saint Louis University, and a Master’s in Educational Administration and a Bachelor of Science in English Education from Missouri State University.
Sincerely,
Candice Carter-Oliver, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer