Faculty Spotlight

In celebration of Mrs. Hoppe’s first year anniversary, we are having a special
Faculty Spotlight of the Month. Happy first anniversary, Mrs. Hoppe!

Meet Mrs. Genevieve Hoppe

Mrs. Hoppe is originally from Tennessee, but has lived in South Carolina, Spain, Costa Rica, and Florida. She enjoys learning about other cultures, people, and languages (which is probably why she started her career as a Spanish teacher). She is the oldest child and has always loved being a leader and a student… in fact, she went to two preschools! She says she is an introvert (but it surprises most people). She went to the same school from kindergarten-12th grade, she has had the same two best friends her entire life, she lived next door to her mother, worked with her sister, and married her high school sweetheart. Outside of school, she loves to read, walk on the beach, play pickle ball, bake, and hang out with her French Bulldog, Diesel.

What is your background and experience? I have been working in education for seventeen years. During my career I have worked as a middle school and high school teacher, an assistant principal, a principal, an assistant head of school, and a head of school. I have also been a student almost my entire life. After high school, I earned my bachelor’s degree from Furman University, my master’s degree from the University of Memphis, and I am currently a Doctoral Candidate at Florida State University. In between earning my degrees, I was able to take part in other professional development opportunities, earning certifications in Design Thinking, Visible Thinking, and School Management and Leadership at both Stanford University and Harvard University.

What is your work philosophy? I follow the wise words of my mentor who once told me that to be successful in an independent school you must “work hard and love kids.”  I try to show up every day and exhibit a contagious passion for education. I truly believe “working hard and loving kids” are the two fundamental characteristics one needs to be a successful educator.

Why did you choose Unity School? The shorter question would be why not choose Unity School, but I will try to answer this succinctly! I think preschool-8th grade schools inherently create an environment where students can learn and grow without more adult pressures since they focus exclusively on the needs of this targeted age of children. And, while a small school, Unity has such an incredibly rich and robust curriculum. From daily specials in elementary school to a plethora of electives in middle school, from every form of the arts to ample sports opportunities, there is something for everyone! Additionally, all of the elective and extra-curricular opportunities are balanced by a stellar academic program, a focus on community service, and a school-wide commitment to peace education. When it all comes down to it though, my very favorite part of Unity School is the people. Everyone is kind, supportive, and working towards the same goal: empowering children and inspiring learning.

What is the most gratifying aspect of working in education? I have seen firsthand the impact quality teaching and instruction has on student confidence and success. I love working with faculty and staff who put students first and who recognize the importance of modeling lifelong learning in and out of the classroom. There is nothing more gratifying than being in a school environment where individuals are valued and known, where there is an unwavering commitment to student success.