TAVARES - Jessica Hopperton, a virtual learning assistant for Lake County Virtual School, has been named the 2024 School Related Employee of the Year for Lake County Schools.
Dr. Elizabeth M. Johnson, incoming Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Lake County, made the announcement at the School Board meeting on December 9.
Hopperton has worked for Lake County Virtual School for 12 years. She is responsible for all bookkeeping duties, serves as the school’s human resources contact, oversees student data processes, assists with student progression, helps with the collection and analysis of school data, and provides additional support where needed.
“Ms. Hopperton has been instrumental in processing the growth of Lake County Virtual School from its small pre-COVID enrollment to its current enrollment of more than 1,000 students,” Superintendent Diane Kornegay wrote in a letter to the Florida Department of Education, recommending Hopperton for the Florida School Related Employee of the Year recognition. “During the pandemic, she oversaw the placement of more than 10,000 students into the school for remote learning, while also training numerous volunteers to help manage the growth. She has a strong work ethic and tireless dedication to the success of our students.”
Lake County Virtual School Principal Paul Miller agrees. “Jessica continues to play an integral role in our ongoing success,” he said in his recommendation letter. “Her expertise in managing our digital learning platforms and her ability to provide accurate, timely communication to students, parents and staff has kept LCVS running smoothly. Jessica’s commitment to the school’s mission has never wavered, and her work is crucial as we look toward even greater achievements in the future.”
Hopperton was one of three finalists considered for the district recognition. The other two were Kirianys Montes, a teacher assistant at Fruitland Park Elementary, and Jennifer Damian, a bookkeeper at Sawgrass Bay Elementary.
