Amy Hopper’s classroom is much more than a place for equations and fractions; it’s where students learn resilience, teamwork, and the surprising power of numbers. As the eighth-grade math teacher, a cheerleading coach, and a dedicated leader of several programs, Amy is at the heart of Knoxville Schools, proving that teaching is as much about shaping character as it is about solving for X.

Amy’s journey to Knoxville wasn’t straightforward—she grew up in Waterloo, Illinois, and followed a family tradition by attending Eastern Illinois University, where she became the 10th member of her family to graduate from the school. While math wasn’t always her strongest subject, Amy had a revelation in high school that would change everything: she wanted to teach math. Inspired by her freshman algebra teacher, she decided she wanted to help students navigate the same challenges she had faced, guiding them with patience and empathy.

Now, as an educator in Knoxville, Amy’s role goes far beyond her title. “I’m not just here to teach math,” she explains. “I’m here to help these kids become the best version of themselves.” Whether it’s working with her seventh and eighth-grade students on advanced math problems or organizing the after-school homework hour program, Amy’s commitment to her students is palpable. She’s tough, but fair, and the community knows her reputation for setting high expectations.

Knoxville has welcomed Amy’s big heart and boundless energy. From her position at the front of the class to the sidelines as cheerleading coach, she embodies the spirit of Knoxville Schools—a place where educators are mentors, friends, and sometimes even family. “It’s a small community, and we all rally around each other,” Amy says, noting the sense of pride that permeates the town. The support she’s received from her colleagues and the community has only deepened her dedication to Knoxville’s students.

Math, as Amy knows well, is a subject many students struggle to connect with but Amy is determined to change that mindset. She knows that understanding math isn’t just about passing tests; it’s about gaining critical thinking skills that apply to every aspect of life. “I tell my students, ‘Come in with an open mind every day. You may not love math, but maybe today, you’ll learn something that will help you,’” she shares with a smile.

Amy isn’t alone in this mission. Knoxville Schools recognizes the importance of making subjects like math relevant to students’ futures, whether that means college, skilled trades, or other paths. The district’s focus on STEM education—including the seventh and eighth-grade STEM class Amy also teaches—ensures that students can see the practical applications of what they’re learning. Field trips to places like Galesburg Area Vocational Center (GAVC) expose students to real-world careers that rely on math, from engineering to construction, giving them a tangible understanding of why learning fractions and equations matters.

“A former student of mine recently told me, ‘I didn’t care about fractions in junior high, but now I need to know them every day,’” Amy recalls with a laugh. It’s moments like these that make her work worthwhile and show the impact Knoxville Schools are having on preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

For Amy, teaching math is as much about building confidence as it is about numbers. She’s seen students go from struggling to thriving, developing a newfound pride in themselves. And as cheerleading coach, she instills that same sense of dedication and focus. Her cheer squad isn’t just there to stand on the sidelines; they’re active, engaged, and knowledgeable about the games they support, embodying the Knoxville spirit.

“I hold my cheerleaders to high standards. They know the game, they pay attention, and they’re always ready to support,” Amy says. Her passion for guiding students in all areas of their lives reflects the values Knoxville Schools hold dear. In Knoxville Schools, students aren’t just learning skills—they’re discovering their potential. Amy Hopper, with her unwavering dedication and community spirit, is a shining example of how Knoxville’s educators are shaping the future, one student at a time.

Knoxville’s investment in teachers like Amy is an investment in the community itself. Every equation solved, every cheer called, every student inspired—it all adds up to something much greater: a legacy of learning, resilience, and unity that will continue to strengthen Knoxville for years to come.