Meet Judy Mullen Hopper!
The Putnam City School District recently had a couple of elections, and I decided to turn my blog into an interview opportunity so we could get to know them better. First up is Judy Mullen Hopper, a veteran Putnam City teacher and passionate, active advocate for public education with the Putnam City PLAC (Parent Legislative Action Committee). Judy taught at Harvest Hills Elementary, retiring after thirty-five years in the classroom. She serves as a Guardian Ad Litem and helps foster children whose education has suffered. Judy’s children attended Putnam City Schools, and her grandson is currently at Ralph Downs Elementary.
When you were in school yourself, what were your favorite memories?
One favorite memory is running for treasurer of my freshman class of about 500 students! Guess that was the beginning of being an involved citizen. By the way, I won. ?
In high school, my focus became art classes. I loved my friendships, art teachers, and everything about it. At the end of my senior year, I received the art award given to seniors.
Did anyone inspire you to become a teacher?
There were several people who influenced me to become a teacher. The first was my 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Shaffer. She was ahead of her time, building relationships with each of her students.
The reason I specialized in Special Education was because of a dear friend’s son who had cerebral palsy. I watched the progress he made with the help of his special education teachers.
Why is public education important to you personally?
Without establishing an education system for ALL children, our country would not have gained the status that it has today. I hope, in my lifetime, that our country returns to the days of encouraging and supporting public education.
by Jennifer Seal
April 15, 2021