Hooper School is excited to welcome its incoming principal, Patty Nikson. Patty is an educational leader from Springfield Public Schools with over a decade of experience as principal at Fairview Elementary. Patty was recognized as the 2024 Abe Lincoln Region Elementary Principal of the Year and a two-time finalist for the Horace Mann Administrator of the Year. She has a strong background in professional development, curriculum planning, and school improvement. Patty brings a collaborative and student-centered approach to leadership, deeply committed to staff growth, instructional excellence, and school community success.