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.
Dr. Roth joined the Lambkin community in 2003, teaching French for several years before becoming dean of students in 2009 and then assistant principal in 2012.
“What I love about Fort Collins High is being a part of a community of students, staff, and families who celebrate the rich history and traditions of the school and at the same time are committed to being innovative to meet the challenges of the future,” she said. “Folks at FCHS create a space where everyone can belong and thrive. After 20 years, it is truly my home!”
As principal, Dr. Roth said she is excited about the opportunity to work alongside her colleagues to build on the positive energy generated over the past year and a half.
“I'm looking forward to continuing to build a positive, inclusive culture and helping students connect their passions and talents with a plan for success after they graduate,” she said.
Dr. Roth began her career in education as a French teacher in a small rural school district in Pennsylvania. Since then, she’s taught in Maryland, France and here in Colorado in middle and high schools, community college and at Colorado State University (CSU).
“People often ask me if I miss teaching since I moved into administration, but honestly, I feel like I'm teaching every day in every interaction I have. I especially enjoy working with new teachers to help them really hone their craft,” she said.
Dr. Roth received her doctorate and master’s degrees in educational leadership from CSU and her bachelor’s degree in French language and culture from Penn State University in Pennsylvania.
Scott Nielsen, assistant superintendent of secondary schools, looks forward to having Dr. Roth on board as principal.
“I am excited about Dr. Roth’s commitment to Fort Collins High School and the success of all the students they serve. Her ability to build relationships and reputation as an instructional leader will help her serve the Lambkin community going forward,” said Nielsen.
Dr. Roth, her husband David and her kids Zoe and Samuel have lived in Fort Collins since 1996. Both of her children also graduated from FCHS. “I had the amazing honor of handing them their high school diplomas,” she said.
Dr. Roth loves reading fiction, cooking, a “really good” cup of coffee, and taking walks with her yellow lab, Wallace.