FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hilton Head Preparatory School Announces New Headmaster
The Hilton Head Preparatory School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jon Hopman as Hilton Head Prep's next headmaster, beginning July 1, 2014. The Headmaster Search Committee unanimously recommended Mr. Hopman's candidacy after a lengthy search citing his breadth of experience, character and reputation, and leadership qualities as ideally suited to leading Hilton Head Prep in the years ahead.
During three visits to the Hilton Head Prep campus, Mr. Hopman had the opportunity to meet with the administration and faculty, more than 50 parents and students, and the entire board of trustees.
“The Search Committee actively sought someone who could provide strong leadership in growing our enrollment, addressing the needs of our aging facilities, managing our finances, and contributing to our marketing and development efforts while continuing our strong focus on academic rigor and leading edge curriculum development,” said Steve Marbut, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. “Jon’s proven track record has touched on all of these key areas. We are excited about the future for Hilton Head Prep under Jon’s leadership and we welcome him to our vibrant community.”
Mr. Hopman comes to Hilton Head Prep from Montverde Academy, in Montverde, Florida, a suburb of Orlando, where he served in various capacities for 13 years. First serving as director of development, business manager and director of admissions, Mr. Hopman served most recently as the assistant headmaster since 2009. During his tenure with the school, Montverde experienced substantial growth with enrollment, surging from 250 students in 2001 to over 1,000 students today. This growth entailed expansion of the school’s facilities, all of which Mr. Hopman helped to oversee. He also led the strategic planning for capital projects and financial management as well as for the recruitment of domestic and international students. He has also been involved with curriculum alignment across divisions and accreditation processes with three different agencies. Mr. Hopman has a B.A. in Business Management from George Mason University and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from Stetson University.
“During my recent visits to Hilton Head Prep, I was most impressed that everyone I met with presented themselves as ambassadors with a true love and pride for the school,” said incoming Headmaster Jon Hopman. “I am truly honored to bring my family into the Prep family and serve to the best of my ability.”
Mr. Hopman will be replacing Headmaster Peter Cooper who served as interim headmaster for the 2008-2009 school year and returned as headmaster in 2012. Mr. Cooper will remain as headmaster through the remainder of this academic year.
“I am delighted that Hilton Head Prep was able to attract a candidate of Jon’s caliber and I look forward to working with him during the coming months to ensure a seamless transition to our school,” said Headmaster Peter Cooper.
Mr. Hopman will be joined by his wife, Mindy, who is also an experienced educator and their two children, Hunter, a rising eighth grader and Haylee, a rising fifth grader.
NOTE FROM CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGARDING JON HOPMAN