The Colorado Association of School Executives (CASE) has announced that Terita Walker, Principal of Denver East High School, has been named the 2025 Colorado High School Principal of the Year. Walker was selected for this prestigious honor by the National Association of Secondary School Principals Selection Committee through a competitive process.

With nine years of public education leadership, including four years as principal of Denver East High School, Walker has worked tirelessly to create a school culture centered on inclusivity, academic excellence, and student empowerment. Her intentional leadership and unwavering commitment to equity have cultivated an environment where students and staff flourish emotionally, physically, and academically.

Understanding the importance of strong relationships in building school culture, Walker prioritizes direct engagement with students, staff, parents, and the broader community. She hosts monthly coffee chats, connects with the school’s 92 affinity groups, and co-hosts Halo Hello events with the East Angels Foundation. Her dedication to celebrating student achievements is evident in her presence at athletic, performing arts, and academic events.

Walker’s data-driven leadership ensures that 75% of her day is dedicated to stakeholder meetings. This approach fosters a school environment where everyone feels heard, supported, and valued. One student shared: “She doesn’t just listen to us—she amplifies our voices, encouraging us to lead, challenge norms, and push for change. Under her leadership, learning extends beyond textbooks. It’s about organizing, advocating, and creating. She empowers us to take ownership of our education and impact the world, making our school a place where ideas become movements, and every student feels they can shape their future.”

At Denver East, equity is a dynamic and ongoing practice. Each year, the school community unites under a central theme—such as “Be A Unicorn,” which celebrates individuality, or “Be A Good Person,” focused on healing after tragic events. This year’s theme is “JOY,” emphasizing the importance of finding happiness in learning and personal growth. Walker has also helped reduce failing grades among Students with Disabilities, English Language Learners, and minority students by ensuring equitable grading practices and providing targeted academic support.

Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, praised Walker’s leadership: “Principal Walker’s integrity and courage have helped her navigate challenges that few leaders ever face. Her deep commitment to DPS is inspiring, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her leading East High. Thanks to her perseverance, East has entered a period of remarkable progress.”

Walker’s leadership has led to significant improvements in student performance. East High’s SAT Math scores increased by 8 points, bucking the national trend of declining scores. Her focus on differentiated instruction and test preparation was key to this success. Advanced Placement (AP) pass rates have risen steadily, reaching 74% in 2024, and more students are participating in AP courses. The school’s impressive 96.2% graduation rate reflects its commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school with strengthened academic advising, college counseling, and career readiness programs.

When informed of her award, Walker expressed her gratitude: “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition, but I must emphasize that greatness at East High School is a collective effort. This award belongs to our incredible students, dedicated leadership team, staff, parents, alumni, district partners, and the entire East community, who work together each day to make our school exceptional. Together, we strive for excellence, and together, we celebrate this achievement as a reflection of our shared commitment to student success. Thank you for recognizing our collective efforts!”

Under Walker’s guidance, Denver East High School is a beacon of academic excellence, student well-being, and equitable opportunity. She will represent Colorado in the National Secondary School Principal of the Year competition alongside other distinguished principals nationwide. CASE will celebrate Walker and other honorees in late April at the 2025 CASE Awards Reception.

Congratulations, Ms. Walker

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