Dear Hopkins Families,
I want to share some personal news. After significant thought, I have decided not to renew my contract as Superintendent when it ends in June 2026. This is not a retirement or a step away from purpose. Instead, it is an intentional choice to explore the many meaningful things I hope to do in the next chapter of my life. After nine years in this role, I feel it is time to pass the torch of leadership.
Serving the Hopkins School District has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Hopkins is a special place. We are a diverse community across eight cities and many walks of life. Hopkins is a District where tradition and innovation live side by side, where we try new ideas, and where our staff work hard to create a sense of belonging and help students reach high academic expectations. Leading this district has brought exceeding reward and healthy challenge. I am grateful to our families for your support and partnership.
Over the past nine years, our families have helped us strengthen our values, hold high expectations for academic excellence, and support our efforts to attract and keep talented educators who reflect the students we serve. Working together, we have created strong systems and practices that help our schools deliver the best possible instruction and support.
Vision 2031 continues to guide our district and is recognized across Minnesota as a forward-thinking plan for the future of learning. With your partnership, it became a strategic plan and roadmap that helps every school and department stay focused on student achievement and operational excellence. Hopkins has always been a district that looks ahead. We have expanded opportunities through the Hopkins Learning and Teaching Framework; elementary Spanish Immersion; International Baccalaureate; project-based as well as experiential learning; VirtualEDU; and equity-focused programs and practices that promote rigor and high achievement. We led with clarity and care through COVID and through several budget reductions. Together, we passed one of the largest bond referendums in the state, ensuring safe, modern spaces for our students. And every day, we work to make sure that belonging, consistency, and coherence are not just words, but daily commitments.
I am entering this next chapter with an open mind and heart. First, I plan to rest, reconnect with myself, and be fully present as a mother. After that, I hope to explore new ways to serve and learn. Perhaps I will design a leadership institute, teach, work on community issues, coach leaders, or even start a podcast.
Hopkins has a strong and positive story, and the district will continue its forward momentum. The foundation we have built together is solid, and the next Superintendent will inherit a community full of potential, innovation, and heart. Over the next seven months, I will stay fully engaged in our work and partner closely with the School Board to support a smooth and thoughtful transition. Beginning in January, families will have opportunities to give feedback and participate in the process to select the next Superintendent. And of course, you will still see me in the community as my daughter (Class of 2030) plans to graduate from Hopkins High School.
As I reflect on nine years, one word stands out: gratitude. Thank you for the trust you place in us, for your partnership, and for the many ways you support your children and our schools. These years will always be among the most meaningful of my life.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed
Superintendent