Dr. Karen Powell

Cahn Fellow 2019

Principal, Montbello Career and Technical High School

Denver, Colorado

Dr. Karen Alexander Powell was the Principal of Montbello Career and Technical High School (MCT) during her Cahn Fellowship in the 2019-2020 cohort. Upon completing advanced degrees, Dr. Powell began a notable career in leadership with successful experience working in urban school settings.  She has a passion for making a positive impact on students who are academically underserved and operates from the adage of “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” Karen believes this mindset is what it will take to help increase students’ academic and technical skills and knowledge - helping to prepare students for college and career choices after completing high school. Karen believes relationships are critical in developing and empowering everyone to be their best: students, staff, and community. To Karen, all students are champions and will have the opportunity to achieve the knowledge and skills needed to thrive and excel academically.

In 2021, Karen was promoted to the Regional Assistant Instruction Superintendent in the Central Region of Denver Public Schools. In 2022, she transitioned to Aurora Public Schools as Learning Community Director.