Royal Oak Elementary School Principal Promoted To New Leadership Role

ROYAL OAK, MI — A Royal Oak elementary school principal is being promoted to a new leadership role that looks to improve learning in the district.

Northwood Elementary Principal Jennifer Knipper will assume the new Supervisor of Continuous Improvement for Royal Oak Schools.

Royal Oak Schools Mary Beth Fitzpatrick said the new position was added to support the growing needs in curriculum, professional learning, grant programs, social/emotional support, and student learning.

"We are very excited to have Mrs. Knipper join our central office team and support the curriculum for all of Royal Oak Schools," Fitzpatrick said. "Her expertise and experience will be an asset to our students."

Knipper, who has been the Principal of Northwood Elementary since 2019, brings a wide range of experiences and knowledge from her time in Royal Oak. She was also an elementary school principal in Waterford Schools.

Knipper holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master’s of Public & Educational Administration, and a Central Office Administration Endorsement.

"I am looking forward to working with Royal Oak students and staff in a different capacity as the Supervisor of Continuous improvement," Knipper said. "In this role, I am able to make a greater impact throughout the entire district. I am grateful and excited for this opportunity."

Knipper will remain the principal at Northwood Elementary until a new principal is selected by the district.

"When thinking about the areas of state and federal grants, career focused education, career technical education, our district and school continuous improvement goals and strategies, Mrs. Knipper's expertise and leadership style will enhance our work in those areas," Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Joe Youanes.