April 2026 - Nancy Lopez-Williams

Colorado Association of Latino/a Administrators and Superintendents LA LUZ DE LIDERAZGO - A MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHT April 2026

Welcome to the CO ALAS Membership Spotlight. Each month we introduce you to one of our many CO-ALAS members. Let’s see what they are doing and what’s on their mind!

This month we are featuring Nancy Lopez-Williams, Principal at Creekside Elementary in the Cherry Creek School District. Nancy shares her professional career and current bio below. You can read the diverse experiences that have led to his various leadership roles. One of our shining stars!

🌟 Career Highlights & Education

My journey in education began in the classroom, where I spent eight foundational years teaching 1st and 2nd grade after graduating from Eastern Washington University. It was my principal who first saw a leader in me, encouraging me to transition from the classroom to administration. While my heart will always be with the students, I discovered a profound passion for the leadership opportunities that allow me to advocate for them on a larger scale.

I went on to earn my Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Gonzaga University. Over the next decade, I had the privilege of serving as a Dean and Assistant Principal in both middle and elementary settings, followed by seven rewarding years as the Principal of Lincoln Heights Elementary.

In 2020, I stepped into the role of Director of Recruitment, Retention, and Evaluation for Spokane Schools following their landmark Equity Resolution. I am particularly proud of leading mentorship programs for educators of color and partnering with the University of Washington to implement a pioneering Student Teacher portal. This work ensured that "matching" was intentional, equitable, and designed to support the next generation of diverse leaders.

Upon moving to Colorado in 2023—following my husband Michael’s retirement from the USAF—I served as the Director of Talent Acquisition for Jeffco Public Schools. Navigating the complexities of a large district was a transformative experience. Today, I am honored to lead as the Principal of Creekside Elementary. Leading our 80 dedicated staff members and 550 incredible Pre-K-5 students is a joy I never take for granted. Go Cougars!

✨ What is exciting about my job?

I lead as a servant first. I carry a mantra with me every day: “What we do for teachers, we do for students. What we fail to do for teachers, we fail to do for students.” My mission is to champion our staff so they can, in turn, provide rigorous, love-grounded learning for our children. Our "Creekside Promise" is simple but bold: to ensure every student transitions to middle school with both a voice and a choice. ¡Si Se Puede!

As a Latina principal, this work is deeply personal. There is an indescribable power in leading a school where students see themselves reflected in their leader. Whether I am singing "Sana Sana" to soothe a scraped knee or sharing stories over galletas con leche, being a role model for our Latinx students is a sacred responsibility.

🧠 Words from a consejero/a

View every opportunity as a vital step forward. Public education is complex because we are quite literally shaping the future. Step into the roles that stretch you, and never underestimate the power of a mentor. If a path no longer aligns with your values, have the courage to reset and move again. Keep moving—the lives of our students depend on our growth.

💡 Advice you would give a new school leader?

• Keep students at the center: Let them be the North Star for every decision.

• Build your circle: Find a mentor who offers strategy and a friend who offers an ear.

• Trust is the currency of leadership: Focus on your people. Clear is kind, but clarity must always be delivered through the lens of a relationship. ¡Dale!

☀️ If you catch me outside the office, you'll find...

When I’m not at Creekside, I am centered by my family: my husband of 18 years, Michael; our son Max (a proud University of Arizona grad); and our twins, Matthew and Emina. We find our joy in camping, traveling, and movie nights. And, if I’m being honest, you’ll likely find me at a local coffee shop—working is truly what I love to do!

🤝 How does CO-ALAS add value?

Joining the CO-ALAS community has been a turning point in my Colorado journey. Two years ago, I attended my first conference at the University of Denver, and the experience of being in a room filled with like-minded Latinas was life-changing. Hearing our shared lived experiences in public education offered a sense of confirmation and inspiration I hadn’t known I was missing.

CO-ALAS has provided me with a vital network of connection. I am especially grateful to Dr. Ron Cabrera for his mentorship and sponsorship. Recently, I had the professional highlight of co-presenting with Gaby Zuno on "Latinx Educators as Change Agents and Leaders." Presenting on a topic so close to my heart was a milestone I’ve long worked toward, and I am proud to continue growing within an organization that celebrates and elevates our community.