January 2026 - Lance Williams

Colorado Association of Latino/a Administrators and Superintendents LA LUZ DE LIDERAZGO - A MEMBERSHIP SPOTLIGHT January 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 Lance Williams, Principal of Ken Caryl Middle School in Jefferson County Public Schools. Lance shares his 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

Lance Williams has dedicated over 26 years to Colorado public education, a career defined by an unwavering commitment to the communities where his journey began. After earning both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Northern Colorado, Lance returned to his hometown of Aurora to serve as a special educator for four years. This early experience in Aurora Public Schools established his lifelong "kids-first" philosophy, ensuring that every administrative decision is rooted in what best serves the student.

His tenure in Jefferson County Public Schools has been characterized by a diverse and comprehensive range of leadership roles. Lance has served as a special education teacher, a social studies teacher, and a dean of students, gaining a holistic understanding of the classroom and student advocacy. His transition into administration included serving as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels, followed by successful appointments as a principal at both the elementary and middle school levels. Throughout this journey, Lance has worked across the socioeconomic spectrum, from Title 1 schools to more affluent communities. This experience has shaped his fundamental belief that, regardless of their background or zip code, "kids are kids," and every student deserves a leader who puts their needs first.

Currently, as the Principal of Ken Caryl Middle School, Lance focuses on creating a positive, inclusive culture for students, staff, and the surrounding community. He is a strong advocate for balancing academic rigor with essential social-emotional support, ensuring that the school environment addresses the needs of the whole child. Central to his leadership is the empowerment of educators; he works diligently to build instructional capacity and foster a culture of shared leadership where every voice is honored and valued.

✨ What is exciting about my job?

What makes my job truly exciting is the simple fact that I get to work with students every single day. I consider myself incredibly lucky to be in a position where I can engage with young people daily, investing the time to truly learn who they are and what drives them. There is a unique energy in a school building, and being able to support students as they explore the world around them—whether through their academic discoveries, their involvement in extra-curricular activities, or the development of their own passions—is what keeps me inspired.

The best part of my work is watching them grow into young adults. I value the opportunity to stand behind them as they navigate these formative years, providing the encouragement they need to pursue what they love. For me, the students are the heart of the profession, and having the privilege to interact with them and support their growth is the most rewarding aspect of being a principal.

🧠 Words from a consejero/a

Early in my career as a young leader, a supervisor shared a piece of wisdom with me that has since become the North Star of my leadership philosophy. They told me, "We work in a people business, and the people we work with and serve are our most valuable asset."

That simple yet profound reminder changed how I view every interaction within a school building. In the fast-paced world of education, it is easy to get caught up in data, state mandates, or administrative tasks, but those words ground me in the reality that schools are built on human connection. Whether it is a student struggling to find their way, a teacher feeling the weight of a difficult semester, or a family member looking for guidance, I am reminded that my primary role is to invest in the person in front of me.

This perspective has guided me whenever I encounter someone—student or staff—who needs a bit of extra encouragement. I’ve learned that for us to show up as our best selves for those around us, we must first feel supported, seen, and valued. By keeping "the people" at the center of my work, I strive to create an environment where everyone feels they have the strength and the backing to continue doing the vital work of learning and growing.

💡 Advice you would give a new school leader?

If I were to offer advice to those stepping into school leadership for the first time, it would center on the power of presence and authenticity. In a role that pulls you in a thousand different directions, the most impactful thing you can do is to be fully present with the people around you. When a student, teacher, or parent asks for your attention, make that person and their needs the most important thing in your world at that moment. By giving them your undivided focus, you aren't just solving a problem; you are signaling that they are valued.

Equally important is the courage to be yourself. Leadership can often feel like a role you have to "perform," but I have found that people connect most deeply with authenticity. Show up for others as your true self. Be genuine in your successes and honest about your challenges. When you are authentic with yourself and to others, you build a foundation of trust that is essential for leading a healthy, thriving school community.

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

When I am not in the office or in the halls of Ken Caryl Middle School, my life is centered around my family and the great outdoors. Much of my time is spent as a proud parent, supporting my own children in their athletic ventures as they navigate the challenges and rewards of being high school athletes. Being there to cheer them on is one of my greatest joys.

For my own personal recharge, I head into the natural beauty of Colorado. I love the adrenaline and peace of riding mountain bikes through our local trails, the patience required for a day of fishing, and simply spending quality time outside with my friends and family. These moments in nature and with the people I love allow me to return to my school community with the energy and perspective needed to lead effectively.

🤝 How does CO-ALAS add value?

In addition to my work within the district, I have found professional and personal value through my involvement with CO-ALAS. I credit this organization with providing a vital network of Latino and Latina leaders that has significantly enriched my perspective and my effectiveness as a school leader.

As a proud participant of the Four Corners Leadership Academy (Cohort 3), I continue to maintain deep connections with the leaders in my cohort, viewing them not just as professional colleagues, but as lifelong friends. For me, the true value of CO-ALAS lies in the strength of its community; I know I can always turn to this trusted network for guidance and wisdom. This brotherhood and sisterhood of leaders serves as a cornerstone for my continued growth as a principal, ensuring I remain at the forefront of professional excellence while honoring my heritage and the community I serve.