Lukas Hopper

Dynamic Education Specialist with 15+ years of experience transforming K-12 education through advanced mathematics instruction and strategic leadership. Expert in professional development design and teacher coaching, with a proven track record of implementing modern mathematics pedagogy and student-centered frameworks like Thinking Classrooms. Adept at using EdTech to scale instructional effectiveness and drive measurable student engagement in a high-growth environment.

Math Master Teacher - York School District 3 - Rock Hill, SC

(2025-07)

Instructional Design and Professional Learning

• Design and facilitate professional development sessions for math teachers that prioritize modern mathematics pedagogy and student-centered learning goals.
• Develop curriculum tools and curriculum implementation guides, translating standards into actionable classroom practices that foster student discourse and conceptual understanding.
• Coach adult learners using structured cycles and observation protocols grounded in instructional clarity and research-backed frameworks.
• Partner with administrators and professional learning communities to analyze performance data and execute strategic planning for instructional and staffing improvements.
• Scale district-wide EdTech resources and manage digital textbook inventory as District Textbook Coordinator, ensuring seamless technology integration across all grade levels.

Secondary Math Instructional Specialist - York School District 3 - Rock Hill, SC

(2019-07 - 2025-06)

Project Leadership and Program Evaluation

• Transformed the district's secondary mathematics instruction program, achieving significant improvements in student achievement on state assessments and increasing teacher retention.
• Facilitated cross-functional workshops with district stakeholders to identify systemic challenges and co-design curriculum implementation solutions impacting over 3,500 students.
• Conducted user-centered discoveries, including classroom observation and stakeholder interviews, to identify and mitigate root causes of instructional gaps in K-12 education.
• Developed and scaled learning systems that promote Thinking Classrooms principles, fostering collaboration and critical thinking in modern math environments.
• Implemented a comprehensive assessment system to monitor student growth, successfully cultivating a district-wide culture of data-literacy and data-driven mathematics pedagogy.
• Managed high-level account management responsibilities by partnering with administrators and technology specialists to solve complex curriculum challenges and align district goals.

Classroom Teacher/Technology Innovation Lead - Nation Ford High School - Fort Mill, SC

(2016-08 - 2019-06)

• Led professional learning communities focused on instructional improvement, technology integration, and schoolwide initiatives.
• Developed and managed New Employee Onboarding Program to support staff effectiveness and retention.
• Coordinated mentoring systems to strengthen instructional quality and professional accountability.
• Collaborated with school administration on MTSS/RTI implementation and instructional planning

Classroom Teacher - Rock Hill High School - Rock Hill, SC

(2015-08 - 2016-06)

• Supported implementation of schoolwide RTI/MTSS systems and intervention planning.
• Collaborated with administrators and counselors to address student academic and behavioral needs
• Maintained consistent communication with families regarding student progress and support strategies.

Classroom Teacher - East Rutherford Middle School - Bostic, NC

(2011-01 - 2015-06)

• Supported school leadership with curriculum development and instructional improvement initiatives.
• Analyzed performance data to support strategic planning initiatives and professional learning priorities.
• Facilitated department meetings to support instructional alignment and school improvement goals.

Classroom Teacher - Chase High School - Forest City, NC

(2010-08 - 2011-01)

• Designed instruction aligned to school and district standards with emphasis on student engagement and achievement.

Master of Arts - Executive Leadership - Gardner-Webb University (2015-05) Boiling Springs, NC

Bachelor of Science - Mathematics - University of South Carolina (2009-12) Columbia, SC