The NHSAA Outstanding Service Award was instituted in 1994 as an important form of recognition for the outstanding work of members of our association who are not superintendents. Annually, members are invited to nominate colleagues for consideration by the selection committee. The judging committee evaluates nominees using criteria that includes the individuals contribution to the educational achievement of the SAU, organizational improvement, initiative, professional growth and service to public education.

Mr. Hopkins began his career in education 20 years ago as a new teacher and in 1980 became a 5th grade teaching Principal in the Rochester School District. In 1987 he became the Allen Elementary School Principal also in the Rochester School District, and in 1993 became the Assistant Superintendent.

In the words of Raymond Yeagley, Supt., SAU#54 “I believe that he (Michael) exemplifies the best qualities of an effective central office administra-tor. He maintains a focus on student needs and student learning, and works well with the public to foster support for the school district, its students and staff.”
Asst. Superintendent Hopkins was the creator and current leader of Rochester’s In-District Transfer Team. The team has improved the district’s ability to deal with special student needs without resorting to out-of-district placements. Michael is also the chair of the district’s Professional Development Committee. In this role he has not only expanded the breadth and improved the quality of in-service offerings, but has also fostered a unified direction and consistency in individual staff development efforts.

In addition, Michael has organized and chaired the District Educational Improvement Planning team. His work in this area has resulted in a major improvement in the district’s planning process and accountability for implementation. He also has an understanding of technology that enables him to go beyond technical expertise to a vision and understanding of how technology can most effectively improve instruction and increase administrative efficiency.

In brief, Michael Hopkins is a consummate professional. According to his co-workers, his greatest talents are his honesty, dependability, efficiency and loyalty to the district and to the children of Rochester.

To quote the Mike’s boss “He is the epitome of a good assistant superintendent. I believe that he fully represents what the NHSAA membership had in mind when the NIHSAA Outstanding Service Award was established.”

Congratulations Mike!