Colorado native Frank DeAngelis retired from his position as principal of Columbine High School after thirty-five years of service. He began his career there as social studies teacher and filled the roles of head baseball coach, assistant football coach, dean of students, and assistant principal before becoming the principal in 1996.
After the tragic shootings on April 20, 1999, DeAngelis mourned with the Columbine community. He vowed to never forget those who were murdered, those who were injured, and all who were impacted by the tragedy. He dedicated his life and career to helping his students—his kids—recover. He committed to staying on as principal to help the students and the community heal. Columbine was his family.
In the years that followed the shootings, DeAngelis was named the Colorado High School Principal of the year and was one of three finalists for the National Principal of the Year. He has also received the Jefferson County Lifetime Achievement Award and the Gandhi, King, Ikeda Community Builders Award.
DeAngelis is often asked to speak and consult with schools and communities as they recover from acts of mass violence. He currently serves as a consultant for safety and emergency management for the Jeffco School District in Colorado and continues to deliver speeches in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
