Zuton Lucero-Mills explains the next principal needs to be culturally competent and have a proven track record of working with diverse communities, while Stan Mills listens at left.

Denver Public Schools (DPS) is in the process of selecting a principal for Northfield High School (NHS) for the 2016-17 school year.

After the first round of interviews, DPS decided to expand the applicant pool to ensure they find the right candidate, thus delaying the original February 5 principal selection deadline, according to Gregg Gonzales,
DPS Instructional Superintendent. A new date has not been set.

The selection process involves screening and interviews, including input from the School Principal Search Advisory Committee, Collaborative School Committee, faculty, students, families and the entire school community.

Throughout January, DPS hosted community engagement meetings to solicit parents’ feedback. At a January 12 meeting, NHS parents listed qualities they hope to see in their new principal, including: experience in high school administration, classroom teaching and IB, seeks equity for all students, appreciates work/life balance, engages day to day in classrooms, culturally competent, has a proven track record hiring the right people, wants to engage families and the community, and handles discipline issues effectively.

Several parents expressed interest in keeping interim Principal Ron Castagna, who has been welcomed by parents, students and staff. He came out of retirement after a successful career at Lakewood High School. If DPS does not find the right candidate, Castagna has agreed to stay on another year. Because Lakewood is an IB school, Castagna is familiar with the curriculum and equipped to help NHS achieve IB authorization, planned for next year.

Updates will be posted as the selection process continues.

Northfield Commons Construction Update

Construction of the Northfield High School commons facility that will be used as a cafeteria and a performance venue is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2016, subject to weather.