Christopher M. Turnbull

Bear Tavern Elementary School
Hopewell Valley Regional School District
Titusville, New Jersey
christopherturnbull@hvrsd.org

Christopher M. Turnbull reveres the opportunity to “change the way children see themselves and the world around them” and aims to motivate teachers to provide world-changing educational experiences to all students. In his seven years as principal of Bear Tavern Elementary School, Turnbull has implemented multiple innovative programs that make the school a unique place to teach and learn. Leveraging grant and PTO funding and collaborations with over 20 community partners, Turnbull led a committee to transform an unused courtyard into a multi-use outdoor learning area. Equipped with a greenhouse, raised garden beds, pollinator meadows, a pond, a stage, and a traditional learning area, this outdoor classroom now offers a flexible space where students can connect with nature and apply science concepts, inviting students to play a more active, empowered role in their own learning. Turnbull likewise invites students to play an active role in their wellbeing by implementing Wellness Days that model varying strategies for self-care. Turnbull has also initiated a more dynamic and engaging approach to morning announcements, using the daily practice as a gateway into the school’s social-emotional learning curriculum while providing unified messaging during a time of many transitions. Turnbull holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and History and a Master of Education in Leadership from the College of New Jersey. He is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree from Rider University.