The CHIEF December 2025

Teacher Interview: Mrs. Hopt By: Caitlin Fuhr

Originating from Camp Point, Illinois, a small town of only 1,400 people, Mrs. Hopt moved on to Illinois State University to study for her math degree, at the same time as Mr. Zega. Whether it be in class, at tribe tutoring, or an extra-curricular, Mrs. Hopt’s favorite thing about teaching is making students “feel seen and known.” Outside of school, Mrs. Hopt enjoys crocheting, kayaking, and watching reality and crime television. Recently, her favorite hobby has been snuggling her baby girl, as she just became a mom in the fall (adorable photos included.) She shared that becoming a mother has made her life crazy busy, but she balances it by leaving her “teacher hat… at school,” so she can give her best to the people around her, focusing solely on being the best wife and mom at home. Mrs. Hopt is so grateful for the school community that listens to her stories about her baby and enjoys all of the photos she shares. One day, Mrs. Hopt hopes her daughter will have teachers who genuinely care about her outside of her academic ability, as Mrs. Hopt does for students at PTHS. According to Mrs. Hopt, the most interesting thing about her is being a mother. While that is an amazing accomplishment, I think it’s important to note Mrs. Hopt coached girls' JV basketball at one point, and she was an amazing and caring coach. Mrs. Hopt always took the time to hear the girls out and wanted the best for each and every one of them. Whether on a bus ride home or during practice, Mrs. Hopt gave the team great advice that showed she cared and wanted them to succeed. For the students here at PTHS, Mrs. Hopt had several important pieces of advice. She believes it’s important to give your best effort at all times, get involved, find a good group of friends for encouragement, and “be kind to everyone you meet.”