Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) has named Dr. Victoria Derks the new principal of Cherry Knoll Elementary School.

Dr. Derks has served as a TCAPS elementary teacher and district level leader for world language since 2011. Prior to that, she held positions including assistant principal intern at Central Grade School, director of professional development and district math support specialist, and talented and gifted (TAG) teacher. She has been a teacher in the district since 1999. Derks was a regional Outstanding Educator Award recipient in 2017.

“Victoria’s extensive education, wide-ranging experience, and commitment to supporting high quality teaching and learning make her an excellent choice to lead Cherry Knoll Elementary School,” TCAPS Superintendent Paul Soma said in a statement. “She has taught at all grade and ability levels and believes in supporting and encouraging every learner and leader to achieve their very best.”

Derks holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and a Specialist in Educational Leadership degree from Central Michigan University. She also holds a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Middle Education from Liberty University.

Derks will begin her new role on July 1.