Prospect Ridge Academy is excited to announce the promotion of Sarah Shoemaker to the interim role of K-8 Principal ahead of the 2026-27 school year. Shoemaker will take on the elevated role in place of Amy Bruce, who retired unexpectedly at the end of the 2026 spring semester due to health concerns.
Because of this leadership transition occurring during the summer months, PRA appointed a one year contracted K8 Interim Principal position to provide stability for students, staff, and families, while taking the time to conduct a thorough search for the best long-term leader.
With over 22 years of experience in education, Shoemaker will now assume the one-year interim K-8 Principal role, with the possibility to apply for the full-time K-8 Principal position.
“Sarah has demonstrated the instructional leadership, operational knowledge, and collaborative leadership style necessary to provide stability and continued growth during this transition year,” said PRA Executive Director, April Wilkin. “Throughout the hiring process, she consistently demonstrated thoughtful decision-making, a student-centered mindset, and a clear understanding of both our instructional priorities and school culture. She will be a strong Interim K8 Principal for PRA during the 26-27 school year.”
Shoemaker brings a wealth of experience to the role as she prepares to enter her 15th school year at PRA, including the previous five years as an Assistant Principal (Elementary Assistant Principal from 2021-2024 and K-8 Assistant Principal from 2024-2026). Prior to that, she spent nine years with the Miners as a Core Knowledge Specialist from 2012-2021; a position unique to PRA and molded by Shoemaker’s vision.
“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to serve in this role and to continue working alongside a dedicated and talented team,” Shoemaker said. “Every day, I see the commitment, passion, and care our staff bring to our students. And I look forward to supporting them as we continue on this journey.”
A Nebraska native, Shoemaker’s education includes a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Creighton University and a master’s degree in Education from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
After stepping into an elevated leadership role in 2020 due to the pandemic, Shoemaker earned her Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from the University of Northern Colorado in 2022 on her path to becoming an administrator.
Shoemaker and husband, Chris, have three children; two PRA graduates, Hannah and Nick, as well as Jack, who is a current 11th grade student at PRA.
PRA will begin a search to fill a one-year, interim K-8 Assistant Principal position to fill Shoemaker’s previous role and join the team alongside K-8 Assistant Principal, Casey Drzewiecki-Baldwin.