Jessica Hooper
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month we are spotlighting Jessica Hooper. In her current role as President of Nativity Prep—an independent, all-scholarship, Catholic middle school, and college access program for first-generation students from historically under-resourced communities—Jessica has led a dedicated group of educators to elevate the profile of the school and program in turn boosting enrollment demand by 40%, and exceeding operational fundraising goals year over year. Embracing the mantra, "If you can see it, you can be it," she has led the establishment and launch of a 6,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art STEM Community Center to serve Nativity Prep students and the greater San Diego Community.
For almost a decade, Jessica served as the Assistant Head of School at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace (OLP), where she worked to foster a nurturing environment that cultivated growth in both students and teachers. A University of San Diego alumna, she initially started her journey as a middle school teacher and expanded her skill set through a Master's in Educational Administration.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jessica enjoys playing tennis, reading, traveling, and exploring the great outdoors with her family. Together with her husband, James, she finds immense joy in being a mother to Clare (14), Jack (13), and Charlie (5).
What’s your connection to RG175?
My connection with RG175 began with Tom Hudnut, whom I was connected to via a trusted colleague and friend. Upon discussing my career aspirations with Tom, he was generous with the connections he provided to multiple colleagues from RG175. I was encouraged to find warm and meaningful conversations with each consultant. Through the process, I discerned my priority was to serve in an all-girls Catholic school sponsored by courageous, wise, and loving Religious Sisters. In other words, all roads led to Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart (NCDS).
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
I felt an immediate and authentic connection to both leads on the NCDS search. Arlyce Siebert and John Green were encouraging and honest from day one. This was my first search process, so I appreciated their authenticity and wisdom. Any question or inquiry I had was met with an immediate response. Guidance was extended graciously, and thorough feedback was provided as requested. As a candidate, I found it evident that John and Arylce were trusted and held in high regard by the Search Committee and Board of Trustees of Newton Country Day. I am confident that the trust they have created will strengthen my transition, and I value that I will continue to have their mentorship during the first year of my appointment.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
It has been said before, but it deserves emphasizing, as Oscar Wilde said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” The search process was a long one. There were many connection points with individual search committee members from the initial semi-finalist stage to my appointment. I was both surprised and relieved to have so many touchpoints because each one further illuminated the school's mission, community values, and challenges. Because I was true to my values and core beliefs throughout the entire process, I could confidently commit to the appointment and, most importantly, could feel confident that my leadership style is mission-aligned for the school and community.
What do you enjoy most about your job as it pertains to Independent Schools?
I value that Independent schools naturally foster and cultivate communities rooted in curiosity. As President, I find fulfillment in collaboratively shaping a meaningful and fruitful future for the community. It is both an honor and a privilege to accompany students, families, faculty, and staff through the challenges and celebrations found in daily life. I find that often, the most minor and human interactions with constituents serve to build the strength of the overall community. Students and families spend limited years on our campuses, but if done well, an independent school's sense of community enhances lives forever.