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Heidi Chapman-Hoy next Steamboat Springs Middle School principal

Teresa Ristow
Steamboat Springs Middle School Assistant Principal Heidi Chapman-Hoy will be the school's next principal.
John F. Russell

— The next Steamboat Springs Middle School principal should have no trouble finding her way around campus.

Heidi Chapman-Hoy has worked at the school for more than 16 years, first as a teacher and for the last 3 1/2 years as assistant principal.

She was selected this week to fill the role of principal beginning with the 2017-18 school year. She will replace outgoing principal Jerry Buelter, who is retiring at the end of this school year.



“I’ve seen a lot of growth in her in her four years as assistant principal,” said Superintendent Brad Meeks. “She’s filled a variety of roles in the middle school, and I see her continuing to grow as an administrator.”

Meeks, along with a committee of administrators and teachers, helped whittle down 24 candidates to four, who took building tours and underwent formal interviews last week.



Chapman-Hoy arrived at Steamboat Springs Middle School in 2000 after working at Denver Public Schools and she said she’s enjoyed working at the middle school level throughout her career.

“I am a big believer that everyone has their level. I feel like when kids are 11 to 14 it’s at times a difficult road, but it’s an awesome time,” Chapman-Hoy said. “They’re becoming people with minds of their own. They’re impressionable but ready to take on new challenges, and you set them up to become good decision-makers.”

Chapman-Hoy said Buelter has served as a good mentor with an effective leadership style during their time working together, which will allow for a smooth transition between the two.

“He’s always promoted grassroots leadership throughout the building,” Chapman-Hoy said. “My ultimate goal is to continue that professional, positive learning community.”

Chapman-Hoy said she hopes the middle school will continue to be a safe, welcoming environment for children.

“It’s a place that when you walk through the door, it’s a place people want to be,” she said.

Chapman-Hoy earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder, her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Colorado, Denver, and her principal’s license from Adams State College.

To reach Teresa Ristow, call 970-871-4206, email tristow@SteamboatToday.com or follow her on Twitter @TeresaRistow


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