Ridgewood Elementary has been named a “2026 School Transforming Learning” by N2 Learning’s Principals’ Institute, recognizing the campus for its commitment to innovative, student-centered learning and continuous academic growth. The recognition was awarded to only 17 campuses across Texas that are making exceptional strides in creating transformative learning environments for students. Nominations were open to more than 550 campuses led by principals who have participated in the Principals’ Institute over the past 14 years. 

Ridgewood Elementary Principal Brandy Copeland said the honor reflects the intentional work taking place across the campus each day. 

“Being named a ‘School Transforming Learning’ by N2 Learning affirms the intentional work we do at Ridgewood around student-centered, future-ready learning,” said Copeland. “This recognition reflects the work we have done to refine our instructional practices through our PLC processes. Our teams collaborate effectively to ensure that students are learning at higher levels—and it gets better every single day.” 

Copeland said grade-level teams have focused on strengthening instructional practices and assessment strategies to better support student success. 

“Grade level teams have worked tirelessly to become more adept at understanding their standards and determining the highest leverage strategies for teaching them,” said Copeland. “They work daily at refining their assessment practices to know what students need and what will grow them the most.” 

Through participation in the Principals’ Institute, Ridgewood has continued building strong leadership and collaboration among staff members across all grade levels and departments. 

“Leadership matters,” said Copeland. “We place a focus on growing leaders within each team across all grade levels and special teams. Our profession is not for the faint of heart, and I've got some gritty teachers who truly are relentless in learning to work together to improve student outcomes.” 

Copeland said the campus remains grounded in a shared belief that every student can succeed. 

“We know what we believe in (all kids can and will learn), and we know how to get them there (consistency, consistency, and consistency!),” Copeland said. 

The impact of Ridgewood’s innovative learning practices can be seen both academically and culturally throughout the campus community. 

“We are seeing growth across the board academically,” said Copeland. “We have a strong momentum in our systems and practices that continue to motivate us. Our culture is the key—we focus on every student and every staff member having a place they belong and truly feeling special.” 

Copeland said creating a welcoming environment remains at the heart of Ridgewood’s success. 

“You can feel it when you walk in the building—it's a happy place!” said Copeland. “We know that kids can't or won't learn if they don't feel safe and loved. Teachers can't thrive if they don't have those components as well. Happy teachers make happy students, which makes happy parents.” 

The campus vision is reflected in Ridgewood’s daily practices centered around connection, commitment, creativity, collaboration, and community. 

“Every one of us tries to live this out on a day-to-day basis,” said Copeland. “We hold each other accountable. It's how we operate and who we aspire to be every day. And we're just getting started.” 

Congratulations, Brandy Copeland and Ridgewood Elementary!