It's back-to-school time! 

Enjoy this first edition of PSD Now for the 2023-24 school year!

After 25 years of work in some of the nation’s largest school systems, I can confidently say that Poudre School District is one of the strongest in America. This is what our community expects, and our students deserve. And at a time when it may feel like it’s hard to find things people agree upon, I think having high expectations – of our school system and students – is something we can all get behind. 

It’s never too early to start planning for a bright future. 

In Poudre School District, we foster the educational, social and emotional growth of kindergarteners in an environment that intertwines academics and enrichment activities. 

Poudre School District is pleased to announce that Danielle Hir and Lucas Riojas will serve as co-interim principals of Poudre Community Academy for the 2023-24 school year. Their first days in the positions are July 17 and 19, respectively. Thank you in advance for welcoming and supporting Danielle and Lucas in their new roles. 

Mark Barry will serve as interim principal of Fossil Ridge High School for the 2023-24 school year. His first day in this position is July 12. Thank you in advance for welcoming and supporting him in this new role. 

Dr. Jodie Rommel brings 20 years of special education leadership experience with her as she takes on her new role as director of Poudre School District’s Integrated Services Department.  

Students and staff at Fort Collins High School have a new principal who has already been a Lambkin for two decades. Dr. Jennifer Roth, an assistant principal at FCHS, will begin work in her new role as principal on July 12. 

Troy Krotz will add 30 years of educational experience to the team at Wellington Middle-High School, as he steps into the role of principal for the 2023-24 school year.  

Drs. Julie Chaplain and Insoon Olson have been selected as Poudre School District’s two newest assistant superintendents, following a competitive national hiring process.  

Together with current Assistant Superintendent Dr. Traci Gile, Dr. Chaplain and Dr. Olson will lead teams of PSD principals and directors of the Learning Services departments. These groups of educational leaders will share best practices and continue improving experiences and outcomes for students – from preschool to graduation and beyond.  

This summer Poudre School District staff will oversee more than 50 projects at 27 sites across the district. Some schools and district buildings may be closed or offer limited access while work is being done. Most projects are expected to be completed by late August.