The Roaring Fork School District announced that Sopris Elementary School’s interim principal for the 2025-26 school year will step into the full time role beginning in 2026-27. 

Carrie Hassel, who has held leadership positions at Sopris Elementary for nearly a decade, served as the assistant principal for eight years prior to taking up the interim position. 

“I’m so excited to continue leading our dedicated staff and fantastic students to future success,” Hassel said in the release. 

“We’re thrilled that Mrs. Hassel will continue to bring her unique leadership capabilities to Sopris Elementary School and continue to guide SES in fulfilling the mission to create a diverse community of engaged learners ready for the world,” RFSD Executive Director of Schools Joel Hathaway said in a news release. 

Before working at Sopris Elementary, Hassel served as the principal of Elk Creek Elementary on the Front Range for three years.

According to the release announcing the leadership change, Hassel was selected using the district’s established hiring process for school leaders.

“The interview committee, composed of certified and classified staff, parents, and district leadership, as well as a separate student panel of SES students, noted that Carrie is a data-focused instructional leader with a track record of success and focus on the power of collaboration,” the release said.