Meet Our New Superintendent — Ms. Vanessa Renae Hopkins (Ed.S.)
We are thrilled to welcome Vanessa Hopkins as our new Superintendent! With more than 20 years of experience as an educator and leader in Atlanta, Memphis, St. Louis, and Syracuse, Ms. Hopkins brings a deep commitment to excellence, equity, and student success.
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Ms.Hopkins as she partners with families, staff, and community members to lead our district toward an even brighter future!
Hello, Blytheville Community!
I’m Vanessa Hopkins, and I am truly honored to serve as your new Superintendent. With more than 20 years in education across Atlanta, Memphis, and Syracuse, I have dedicated my career to helping students and educators reach their fullest potential through equity, innovation, and collaboration.
My journey has included serving as an award-winning Turnaround Principal in Syracuse and a Level 5 District Literacy Coach in Memphis, where I helped lead a 20-point increase in literacy proficiency—earning the “Best in District” award. Earlier in my career, as an English Language Arts teacher and Social Studies Department Chair in Atlanta, I was recognized with the district’s “Excellence” Award after my students reached 82% proficiency.
At the heart of my work is a belief that every child deserves access to an excellent education, regardless of zip code or circumstance. I’ve spent my career advocating for equity and fairness at the district, city, and state levels—and I’m eager to continue that mission here with you.
I hold a Master of Arts in Education and Instruction, an Educational Specialist in Administration and Leadership, and I am currently completing my Doctor of Education in Leadership (expected May 2026).
I look forward to partnering with our incredible teachers, families, and community members to build on the district’s strengths and create even greater opportunities for our students. Together, we can make sure every child’s story shines.