Earning the recognition of the Maricopa County Exemplary Principal award is one of the greatest honors I have ever received.”

Jill Hoppe | Canyon Ridge School principal

One of the top principals in the county leads students in Surprise.

Canyon Ridge School Principal Jill Hoppe received the prestigious Exemplary Principal Award from Maricopa County School Superintendent Shelli Boggs during a July 28 staff meeting.

Hoppe, who has been an educator for 28 years, started as a fourth through sixth grade teacher, was a reading specialist and coordinator for continuous improvement before becoming an assistant principal. She is beginning her ninth year as the Canyon Ridge School principal, which has been an “A”-rated school since the state began school labels.

“We are so proud to have Jill Hoppe on our team of exceptional leaders,” DUSD Superintendent John Croteau said. “Under her leadership, A-rated Canyon Ridge has continually performed well and been ranked highly in the state. Jill is an asset to the entire community, the campus, staff and students.”

The Exemplary Principal Award recognizes leaders who understand the connection between a thriving school culture and high levels of student achievement and teacher retention. These leaders intentionally and strategically nurture school environments where teacher and student voices set and realize the school’s vision. They lead schools where students achieve academically and emotionally, and teachers are inspired to remain at the school and in the profession.

“Earning the recognition of the Maricopa County Exemplary Principal award is one of the greatest honors I have ever received,” Hoppe said. “The process was arduous, including five phases that took almost one school year to complete. This award is so special because it included support of the Canyon Ridge staff and community input. Canyon Ridge is my extended family and it is my honor to serve students, staff, families and the community. I will continue to serve with shared leadership and the quest toward excellence.”

Award recipients undergo a rigorous evaluation that involves a superintendent nomination, application, teacher survey, video interview, site visit and extensive data review.

Criteria for selection includes the ability to actively engage staff, parents and community members in developing an effective school culture; utilize data to guide instruction and decisions regarding staff development; consistently demonstrate high teacher retention; and successfully develop and inspire others.