Stephanie Lock elected principal of Centennial High School

The Poudre School District is pleased to announce that the next principal of Centennial High School will be Stephanie Lock.

After 30 years of teaching and administration experience in California, Lock is excited to return to Colorado to continue her career in education.

“To me, Centennial High School is about having the opportunity to directly impact student success every day,” Lock said. “This is exactly what I was looking for and hoping to find in a school when I return to Colorado to continue my educational career.”

Growing up surrounded by educators in her family, Lock transitioned from being a teacher as a young woman to finding her own career as a teacher and administrator.

Lock received a bachelor’s degree in physical science with an emphasis in middle school teaching and a minor in mathematics education from the University of Northern Colorado. He also has a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctorate in educational justice leadership from the University of Redlands in California.

PSD Assistant Superintendent Julie Chaplain credits Lock’s many years of experience in education.

“(Stephanie) has worked in alternative programs as a teacher and assistant principal, in addition to many years serving as the district’s principal and career and technology coordinator. I am thrilled that the staff, students and Centennial community have her leadership and support.”

As a leader and colleague, Lock focuses on creating positive relationships with staff, students, families and the community with the goal of student success in mind.

“My entire career has been centered on making learning meaningful for students through interactive and collaborative learning experiences, as well as creating diverse opportunities to experience success,” Lock said. “I want students to feel that no matter how difficult the struggles of their lives, they always have hope for success in their future.”

Lock has three children — Jeremy, Jordan and Alie — and two grandchildren. After growing up in Arvada and attending UNC, Lock is happy to return to the state she has always called home, surrounded by family and many lifelong friends.

A little known fact about Lock is that he played varsity soccer as a forward for Arvada West High School. Her team was Colorado State Champion in 1987 and 2nd in 1988.

Outside of work, Lock enjoys hiking with her chocolate lab named Brewster, camping, exploring new places and restaurants, learning new things, and reading a variety of books.