Principal
Email:
j_rodriguez-bracey@dpsk12.net
Department(s):
Leadership
Dear Northfield Community,
It is an honor to serve as the Principal of Northfield High School. As a Denver native and someone who has spent more than 24 years working in public education, I understand the important role schools play in the lives of students, families, and communities. I also recognize the tremendous responsibility that comes with leading a school like Northfield, and it is a responsibility I take seriously.
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to serve in many different roles, from paraeducator and classroom teacher to coach, athletic director, assistant principal, and now principal. Each experience has shaped how I lead and strengthened my belief that great schools are built through strong relationships, high expectations, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to doing what is best for students.
One of the things I appreciate most about Northfield is the diversity of our community and the many experiences, perspectives, and talents our students bring to school each day. I believe our responsibility as educators is to create an environment where students feel a sense of belonging, are challenged academically, and have access to opportunities that allow them to explore their interests and discover what they are capable of achieving.
Our school vision, Learning about ourselves and the world. Setting the standard for educational equity and academic excellence, guides the work we do every day. I believe deeply that educational equity and academic excellence must go hand in hand. We cannot claim to be an excellent school if that excellence is not accessible to all students. This means being intentional about the experiences we provide, the expectations we hold, and the support we offer to ensure students have what they need to be successful.
Over the past several years, Northfield has experienced tremendous growth and success. We have strengthened our academic programs, expanded opportunities for students, and achieved some of the strongest academic outcomes in our school’s history, including being recognized as the #1 high school in Colorado by U.S. News & World Report. I am incredibly proud of this recognition and the hard work of our students, staff, and families who have contributed to our success.
At the same time, I know there is still work to do. I believe one of the most important responsibilities of leadership is being willing to celebrate what is going well while also being honest about where we need to improve. We will not always get everything right, but I am committed to listening, learning, making thoughtful decisions, and continuing to build a school community that reflects the values we share.
As a principal, I care deeply about the experiences our students and families have at Northfield. I want students to look back on their high school years and know they were challenged, supported, and surrounded by adults who believed in them. I want our families to feel welcomed, informed, and confident that we are working in partnership with them. And I want our staff to feel valued and supported in the important work they do every day.
I am grateful for the educators, counselors, mental health specialists, support staff, leaders, families, and community members who helped establish Northfield’s foundation, and I am proud to be part of its continued growth. It is a privilege to work alongside people who care so deeply about our students and the future of our school.
Whether you are a current family, a future Nighthawk, a staff member, or a community partner, thank you for being part of our journey. I look forward to continuing our work together and building on the many things that make Northfield such a special place.
With Nighthawk Pride,
Jessica Rodriguez Bracey