As the inaugural principal of Lyons Farm Elementary School, James Hopkins ‘03 has exemplified effective leadership in education, steering the school to unprecedented academic growth since its opening in 2022. With 22 years in various educational roles, Hopkins has positioned Lyons Farm as a model for success in Durham Public Schools.
Hopkins’s journey in education has been shaped by personal challenges. Growing up, he was held back a grade, which instilled in him a drive to succeed despite setbacks.
“Having to relive the experience of being held back influenced me deeply,” he said.
This experience fueled his passion for education and inspired him to pursue leadership, aiming to create an environment where students can thrive and overcome obstacles just as he did.
From the outset, Hopkins recognized that the key to a thriving school lies in hiring exceptional educators. He instituted a rigorous seven-step interview process to ensure that the teachers not only possessed the requisite skills but also aligned with the vision of fostering a collaborative teaching community.
“You give people enough time to talk, and they’ll tell you everything you need to know about them,” he said.
One of the hallmarks of Hopkins’s leadership is his commitment to empowering teachers. His experience at NCCU shaped his leadership style and approach to education. As a history education major, he was encouraged by Phillip Masila Mutisya, Ph.D., to help establish the Educators Majors Advisory Council (EMAC).
“That’s where I think the seed of leadership was planted deep down inside,” he said.
Under Hopkins’s leadership, Lyons Farm Elementary became the top-ranked elementary school in North Carolina for academic growth. This success stems from a combined focus on data-driven strategies and fostering an inclusive school culture.
“Academic rigor means encouraging exploration and trying new things,” he said. Students are encouraged to take risks in their learning, which ultimately enriches their educational experience.
Lyons Farm Elementary has redefined academic rigor to focus on a learning environment that cultivates students' curiosity and resilience. The approach emphasizes exploration, challenging them to think critically and creatively.
Empowering Communities and Shaping Future Generations
At Lakewood Elementary, Hopkins recounted when his school was under threat of state takeover. Collaborating with the Durham Association of Educators, they rallied the community to prevent the takeover and turned the school’s fortunes around.
“It was a testament to the power of organizing and inspiring confidence within a community,” he said.
To foster a culture of empowerment, Hopkins believes in the role of teachers as experts in the classroom.
“Let teachers lead,” he said.
Through listening to their ideas, even if still developing, he cultivates an atmosphere in which educators feel valued and inspired to innovate.
Additionally, Hopkins emphasizes the importance of alumni in shaping future generations at NCCU. He advocates for alumni to actively engage with the university and its current students, sharing their experiences and fostering a culture of support and pride. “Alumni should talk about their positive experiences and be involved in whatever capacity they can,” he said.
This includes initiating conversations, participating in advisory roles, and contributing to the growth of the current student body. He highlights that while financial contributions are important, the act of staying engaged and connected with the community carries equal weight.
As he continues to lead Lyons Farm Elementary, Hopkins aims to be remembered as a teacher who instilled enthusiasm and thoughtfulness in his students.
“I aspire for my students to feel engaged and excited about what they learn,” he said.
In an ever-evolving educational landscape, James Hopkins dedication to fostering an environment rich in collaboration, innovation, and a love for learning showcases the profound impact one principal can have on their community and the future of education in Durham.