Prairie View Elementary Principal Dr. Quennel Cooper wins MESPA leadership award

Congratulations to Dr. Quennel Cooper, principal at Prairie View Elementary, for receiving a 2025 Division Leadership Award from the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA)! Dr. Cooper is one of 13 elementary school principals statewide to receive this honor this year, which celebrates principals who demonstrate transformational leadership, genuine care for their students and staff, and unwavering dedication to advancing the quality of education in Minnesota.

“These principals exemplify the highest standards of leadership," said MESPA Executive Director Michelle Krell. "Their passion, commitment and dedication to their schools, communities and the profession of education are truly inspiring.”

Representing the West Suburban Division, Dr. Cooper said being selected by his peers to receive this honor has been a humbling experience.

"I'm grateful for this award," he said. "This is the first award I've ever received in education, so to be recognized by my peers is very humbling. To be seen in this way by other leaders is something that I don't take lightly."

Dr. Cooper's bold, visionary approach to leadership has been a hallmark of his tenure as principal at Prairie View. He said his leadership is guided by perseverance and a focus on creating positive, lasting change for students and staff alike.

"Winning an award like this makes you reflect on everything you do for kids and education," he said. "It's nice to be recognized and noticed, but this award isn't just for me. This is about the work we're doing for kids at Prairie View and in Eden Prairie Schools. Leaders don't do it on their own — it takes a community."

In addition to his role as principal, Dr. Cooper serves as the president-elect of the West Suburban Division and actively leads MESPA’s efforts in advocacy through his work with the Elementary Principals’ Action Committee. His influence extends beyond the school walls, helping support legislators that align with MESPA’s legislative priorities. Dr. Cooper is also a member of the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board and coaches principals at Courageous Leadership Institute.