New Assistant Principal Named At West Aurora High School

AURORA, IL — A new assistant principal was selected to help lead West Aurora High School starting in the 2026-27 school year.

The West Aurora School District 129 Board of Education approved Nicki Hopkins's appointment during its regular meeting Monday. Hopkins was named the assistant principal of special programs and services.

Hopkins is the first to hold the title at District 129 after the administration created the role "to provide focused leadership and support for Special Education and Multilingual Learners," Director of Community Affairs​ Anna Gonzales told Patch. The role is one of several involved in a district-level restructuring.

Hopkins will join District 129 from Waubonsie Valley High School, where she serves as dean of students, leading student services and case management for about 700 students.

Her experience also includes serving as student services coordinator at Granger Middle School, where she directed special education compliance, led Multi-Tiered System of Supports meetings and supervised paraprofessional staff. While there, Hopkins also coordinated Extended School Year programming at the high school level, overseeing staffing, compliance and service delivery for students requiring specialized support.

Hopkins began her career as a special education teacher and case manager who delivered specialized instruction and collaborated with general education staff to support inclusive practices, the district said.

"I am honored and overjoyed to accept the position of Assistant Principal for Special Programs and Services at West Aurora High School," Hopkins said in a statement. "I look forward to serving a community rich in tradition and history while continuing to support progressive practices that ensure we do what is best for every student. Go Blackhawks!"