Having been at Clover Hill High School for a little over three years, Dean of Students Hope Collins has inspired the students here on the Hill with her dedication and desire to help the school’s community.
Growing up, Collins struggled with math in school because her teachers never interpreted math in a way she was able to understand. When she went to college, she had a professor who broke math down in a way she could understand, and from then on, she knew that is what she wanted to do.
“I’m not one that gives up, so I continue to strive,” Collins said. “If I can make a difference in the lives of these people that are going to be my leaders of the future, that’s why I’m here.”
Collins got her undergraduate degree from Longwood University and she studied early elementary education with a minor in mathematics. For graduate school, she attended Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and got a degree in interdisciplinary studies, then another degree from Longwood University for administration.
Collins started her career as an elementary school math teacher. She recognized she was a good leader in and out of her classroom and wanted to use her skills to become a math specialist and help other teachers. As much as she enjoyed being able to help other teachers, she missed being involved with the lives of students, so she made the decision to go into administration.
“People kept saying ‘you have so much more to offer,’ and I missed the kids when I was working with the teachers,” Collins said. “I feel like I can make a difference with a whole bunch more students by being an administrator by being here, being present, and sharing what I know as a parent and educator with them to help them grow because they’re our future.”
Through being in education for numerous decades, Collins has found a deep appreciation for her work and could not imagine herself doing anything else.
“I’m 35 years into education, and I don’t ever see myself retiring because I love it so much,” Collins siad.
