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[Pages S2810-S2811]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
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TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL L. HOPKINS
Mrs SHAHEEN. Madam President, today I wish to salute Michael
L. Hopkins for his decades of tireless work and devoted service to the
schools of Rochester, NH. Mike is retiring this year as superintendent
of the Rochester School District after spending the entirety of his
career in the city's school system. He leaves a legacy worthy of our
praise and our gratitude.
We all know the value of a quality education. It plays a critical
role in the development of young minds everywhere, and enthusiastic
teachers and administrators make it possible for so many students to
take part in experiences that shape a lifelong appreciation for
learning. As a former teacher myself, I know the commitment and
understanding required to engage students, encourage curiosity and
critical thinking, ultimately prepare them to find success after school
and outside of the classroom.
Mike is also a former teacher, and he has brought that perspective to
every move he makes as his district's top decision-maker. After
graduating from his hometown school, Grinnell College
[[Page S2811]]
in Iowa, Mike set his sights toward New Hampshire and accepted a
teaching job at the Gonic School. He quickly assumed managerial duties
in addition to his teaching responsibilities as the school's teaching
principal. Mike was a fitting choice when a full-time principal
position opened a short time later at the nearby William Allen School,
where he served for 6 years before being promoted to assistant
superintendent of the city's school system. A dozen years later, he
made a seamless transition to superintendent of all Rochester schools.
As superintendent, Mike has retained a deep connection to the
classroom, even in a sprawling district comprised of 11 public schools
with over 4,400 children and 800 employees. He is a constant presence
in the halls of city schools, and teachers are quick to point out how
his caring, compassion, and guidance make it easier for them to fulfill
their essential roles as educators. He has also forged meaningful
relationships outside school walls with business and nonprofit leaders
in the Greater Rochester region, all in an effort to strengthen the
educational programs he is able to offer to students.
Under Mike's leadership, Rochester schools have been quick to adapt
to a changing learning landscape, embracing technology and alternative
educational methods in order to provide the best education possible to
city students. He has been influential in developing training programs
at Spaulding High School's Creteau Regional Center that pair bright
high school students with local businesses looking to grow. This is an
approach that can help satisfy demands statewide for a capable,
qualified workforce.
Mike has accomplished so much in his four decades in the Lilac City
schools. Words like visionary, innovator, and community builder are
often used to describe his tenure; yet, if one were to ask Rochester
teachers, staff, administrators, school board members, and residents
about Mike Hopkins, one quality emerges more often than the others: his
humility. Mike always put the interests of students and teachers first,
and when he found success, he was always eager to share credit with
others. He was driven by a desire to better the lives of students, and
his impact on the Rochester community will be felt for years to come.
On behalf of the people of New Hampshire, I ask my colleagues and all
Americans to join me in thanking Mike Hopkins for his service and
wishing him all the best as he begins a well-deserved
retirement.
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