Leadership

Brighton High School Students, Parents and Community,

As I reflect on the past 14 years I have worked at Brighton High School as a Teacher, Coach, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director, I am reminded of all of the outstanding students, staff and parents with whom I have had the privilege to work. Brighton High School is truly a special place for so many reasons. The traditions and legacy make it a place where anything is possible.

Our vision for Bulldog Athletics and Activities is one where we should “never accept mediocrity.” What does that mean? For me, it means students should study, work, practice and perform to always be the best version of themselves in all endeavors, whether that be Academics (which comes first and foremost), Athletics and Activities. This phrase provides purpose and defines a direction to which all of our students can absolutely strive.

That being said, I want to wish all of our students the best of luck as the school year begins. I also want to wish our students involved in Athletics and Activities good luck as well. To the wonderful parents of our students, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me personally if you ever need anything. I am honored to work at such a great school with such amazing young people.

David Smith

Athletics & Activities Director/Assistant Principal, Brighton High School

dsmith@sd27j.net

Bulldog Students, Parents, and Community,

I am incredibly grateful and excited to join the Brighton High School Bulldog community! A Bulldog at heart, I was raised in Brighton and graduated from BHS in 1996, having walked the same halls as today’s students and grown up enjoying being part of our long-standing Bulldog community traditions.  I feel deeply connected to our school through years of family attendance and personal history. 

I have spent the majority of my career in 27J Schools as both a teacher and a school leader, most recently as the principal at South Elementary, just a few blocks away from Brighton High School where some of our youngest Bulldogs begin their educational journey.  In my new role at BHS as an Assistant Principal, I will support our 9th grade students as well as the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse courses and planning, the ACES (Advanced Courses for Every Student) support systems, World Languages, and Social Studies departments. 

I am a longtime member of the Brighton community, living locally here in Brighton and am a proud parent multiple BHS alumni as well as current BHS students, which further cements my investment in our school’s legacy and positive impact on all of our BHS students and the important roles they will play in the future of our community.  I deeply appreciate BHS's community partnerships and am grateful for the strong connections Brighton High School has to the people, businesses, and greater community of Brighton. Away from school, I enjoy playing golf with my husband and kids, traveling, baking, reading, gardening, and cheering on my children during sporting events and dance performances.  

I believe strongly in the BHS mission of sparking curiosity that drives academic excellence while uniting our community through respect and kindness and the work we do to support our students in finding success.  I hope to bring to BHS a meaningful and impactful blend of school loyalty, community commitment, and educational leadership in my new role.  Please reach out to me if I can be of support in some way in your connection to Brighton High School.  I am eager to serve our BHS students and community.

Go Bulldogs!

Mrs. Kristen Puzio

Assistant Principal, Brighton High School

kpuzio@sd27j.net

I am honored and excited to join Brighton High School as your new Assistant Principal! As a proud Colorado native, I have dedicated the past 14 years to education, serving as a project manager at the Colorado Department of Education and teaching at both the elementary and high school levels. My experience includes teaching business, computer science, personal finance, and AVID, all of which have fueled my passion for helping students prepare for their futures.

Beyond the classroom, I have spent 22 years coaching volleyball, basketball, and tennis. Coaching has taught me the value of teamwork, perseverance, and character—lessons that will I bring into my leadership role here at Brighton High School.

When I’m not at school, I love exploring Colorado’s mountains and trails with my husband and our Australian Cattle Dog. I also enjoy crafting, watching sports, and learning new things like dancing.  I am eager to get to know the students, staff, and families of the Brighton community and look forward to working together to create an environment where every student can thrive.

Go Bulldogs!

ejames@sd27j.net

 

I am thrilled to be serving as Assistant Principal at Brighton High School, home of the Bulldogs!

I started my career in education as a classroom teacher and quickly discovered how much I love building relationships with students, staff, and families. Over the years, I have worked as a teacher and instructional coach, supporting educators in creating engaging, student-centered learning environments. These experiences have shaped my belief that every student deserves a safe, welcoming space where they can grow, take risks, and discover their strengths.

At Brighton, I am here to support our students in achieving their goals, our teachers in creating dynamic classrooms, and our community in building a strong school culture. I am passionate about helping students find their voice, stay connected to school, and leave with the skills and confidence they need for whatever comes next.

When I am not at school, you will probably find me running, hiking Colorado trails, reading, spending time with family, or cheering for a local team. I am proud to be a Bulldog and cannot wait to see all we will accomplish together this year!

ltuck@sd27j.net

Bulldog Students, Parents, and Community:

My educator philosophy is centered around the whole child. I firmly believe that every student has the ability to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. My leadership style is focused on collaboration, partnership, and the idea that everyone matters. 

This year I will be overseeing Brighton High School’s: Mathematics and Science departments. Other roles I oversee are Safety and Security, Conferences, Gifted and Talented, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Graduation, and 12th graders (Seniors). These programs amongst so much more that Brighton has to offer gives students their best opportunity to be successful not only today, but in life. 

A little about myself, I’m a Colorado native. I got my undergraduate degree at The University of Northern Colorado and my masters at Regis University. I love everything sports and still play in adult soccer leagues. This will be my 9th year in 27J Schools and can’t imagine ever leaving. 

I feel honored to be part of the Brighton High School team. Finally, I look forward to helping students to be their best selves and be a part of the team that prepares them for what the world has to offer.

Sincerely,

Mr. Anthony D’Alanno

Assistant Principal, Brighton High School

adalanno@sd27j.net