November 6th, 2024

Grand Island Public Schools is pleased to share that Howard Elementary will have an additional friendly face leading the Huskies. 

Mrs. Sydney Hespe will transition into a new leadership role as Howard’s Assistant Principal beginning in January 2025. Howard Elementary is adding the assistant principal role for needed support due to the school’s increasing enrollment.

Hespe has been with GIPS since 2015, starting as a second grade teacher at Knickrehm Elementary. She has held various roles at Knickrehm such as fifth grade teacher, Title I Specialist and Academic Support Coach. She has been the Academic Support Coach at both Knickrehm and Jefferson Elementaries since 2023.

“I am very excited to join the Howard Elementary team and can't wait to begin cultivating relationships with staff, students, and families,” Hespe said. 

In addition to her daily responsibilities, Hespe has stepped into various leadership roles at GIPS. She has helped with MTSS (multi-tiered systems of support) and Assessment Chairperson duties at Knickrehm, and helped lead MANDT training with the GIPS Special Education department.

“I have had the opportunity to partner with and learn from many incredible leaders within GIPS. Each has inspired me to continue to learn and grow so that I can have a positive impact on students, staff, and families,” Hespe shared. “ I love serving in a diverse community, and it has been highly rewarding and continues to be my passion for public education and school administration.” 

Hespe earned her Bachelor's Degree from Hastings College and her Master's Degree at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

“I look forward to contributing to an environment where students and staff thrive,” Hespe added about her transition to Howard.

Grand Island Public Schools and Howard Elementary are excited to welcome Mrs. Hespe in his new role! 

#WeAreGIPS