Our Team
Administration
Blake Cripe
Principal
Mr. Cripe has been an educator since 2008. Mr. Cripe did his student teaching at Hopewell Junior and taught math and science before becoming the Assistant Principal in August 2021. In August 2025 Mr. Cripe became Principal of Hopewell Jr. Mr. Cripe loves continuing the many great traditions that were started by principals before him as well as inspiring new ideas and embracing change.
Andrew Kesse
Assistant Principal
Mr. Kesse has held a wide range of positions dealing with students since his start in 2007. He started as a long-term substitute before transitioning to the classroom as an intervention specialist for 12 years. He then switched gears and moved into leadership positions as a Dean of Students for three years and now as an Assistant Principal. He believes that everyone, from students to support staff, has a vital role in the success of the building. Mr. Kesse also thinks that student success should come first and that there should always be an element of fun involved.
Karen Gantzer
Secretary, Data Processing Specialist
Mrs. Gantzer serves as both Attendance Secretary and Data Specialist for Hopewell Junior. Contact her with questions about HAC passwords, student enrollment/withdrawal and report cards.
Andria Lapthorn
Guidance
As a School Counselor, Mrs. Andria Lapthorn works with students, teachers, and parents to support student academic, college/career and social/emotional needs. Her responsibilities include student scheduling, connecting families to community resources, and providing school programs to address student development. Mrs. Lapthorn brings experience as a high school teacher and school counselor to her work with middle schoolers and families during these pivotal transitional years.
Kelly Stevens
Office Secretary
Ms. Stevens serves as secretary to the Assistant Principal and the Athletic Director. Ms. Stevens assists in scheduling parent/teacher conferences, as well as billing and receiving payments for athletic fees.
Toni Youkilis
Office Manager
Toni is excited to begin her new role as Office Manager at Hopewell Jr. as of July 2025. She will oversee daily office operations while ensuring staff, students and families are receiving the support they need.