INNISFAIL - A former Olds elementary school principal turned associate superintendent and a current longtime Didsbury band teacher are being honoured by Chinook’s Edge School Division for their significant contributions to student success over decades.
Ray Hoppins, associate superintendent and Kirk Wassmer, band teacher at Didsbury High School, are the division’s Roy E. Cope Award winners for 2024.
“Ray and Kirk are both exceptional educators and individuals,” said Holly Bilton, Chinook’s Edge board of trustees chair, in the division’s May 7 release announcing this year’s award winners. “We are grateful for the incredible work they’ve done and the difference they’ve made in Chinook’s Edge for students and staff.”
Roy E. Cope was the superintendent of schools for the County of Red Deer prior to the creation of Chinook’s Edge School Division in 1995.
The award, named after Cope, is given to any person who, in the opinion of the division’s board of trustees, has made a significant contribution to the educational welfare of students.
“Ray’s legacy is one of ensuring our people are well cared for. Kirk’s legacy includes a passion for music shared with his students and a feeling of inclusion and belonging for each one at school. Thank you Kirk and thank you Ray for all you’ve done,” Bilton’s statement concluded.
Both educators are retiring in June.
Chinook's Edge is an 11,000-student school division headquartered in Innisfail.
