Lone Tree

The Lone Tree school board voted last Wednesday to move forward with Amber Jacque as the next PK–12 principal, beginning in the 2026–27 school year.

The district announced Jacque’s appointment, noting she will provide unified leadership across all grade levels.

“The District is proud to announce the appointment of Amber Jacque as the PK–12 Principal for the 2026–2027 school year. In this role, Jacque will provide unified leadership across all grade levels, supporting continuity in curriculum, instruction, and student experiences.”

Jacque has served as the elementary principal since 2007. She also took on the role of athletic director last fall.

With the district transitioning to a single principal model, the board selected Jacque to lead the entire school.

When asked how she plans to manage the responsibilities of both PK–12 principal and athletic director, Jacque pointed to her experience and support system.

"One of the advantages is that I’ve been in the district for 19 years and work with a strong staff and instructional coach, which has helped create a system-oriented, data-driven environment where expectations are clear. I’m very organized, arrive early each day, and with my husband and I becoming empty nesters this year, I feel ready to devote even more time and energy to the work.”

Jacque said her goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible for both staff and students.

“My goal is to ensure a smooth transition by maintaining a strong, system-focused approach and creating better alignment, bringing all staff together under one structure to strengthen collaboration and unity.”

One of the district’s goals this year has been improving school culture. Jacque said maintaining that culture will remain a priority.

“I make it a priority to be visible throughout the building, staying active and present in classrooms and hallways rather than spending too much time in the office. One of the advantages is that I’ve already worked with many of our middle and high school students when they were in elementary school, so those relationships are already in place, and I believe that mutual respect will help make the transition a smooth one.”

7–12 Principal

As part of the transition to a single principal, the board approved the termination of middle and high school principal Andrew Koshatka.

Property tax levy 

During the meeting, Superintendent Tyler Hotz discussed the proposed property tax levy, which was initially set around $12.88 or $12.89 per $1,000 of assessed value.

“Updated information shows state aid will cover part of the levy, lowering the rate to around $12.80, and while the board can’t increase the rate, it can adjust items within it,” Hotz said.

Hires and resignations

The board also approved several staffing changes, including a number of resignations across the district. Those resigning  were Colene Feldman, Gabriele Kates, Mikie Tharp, Ryan Shelman, Hanna McDowell, Collin Smith, Mary Loan and Kelsey Diaz, who served in various teaching, coaching and support roles.

At the same time, the district approved several new hires. Tom Dickey was named junior high boys track coach, Hogan Eden was hired as a health paraprofessional, and Jaden Wulfekuhle will serve as the varsity head volleyball coach. Katie Bruno and Zachary Tanner were hired as elementary teachers, and Caroline Jilek will serve as the district’s Spanish teacher.

90-day ineligibility waiver

Later in the meeting, the board considered a 90-day ineligibility waiver for Owen Eden. Board President Jennifer Eden recused herself from the discussion and vote, turning the meeting over to Vice President Alex Ogren.

The board ultimately approved the waiver.

Open enrollment

The board also considered open enrollment requests for Owen Eden for the 2025–26 school year and Gabriel Reed for the 2026–27 school year, both submitted after the March 1 deadline.

Eden, who had recused herself earlier, was not part of the vote. 

A motion was made to approve the requests but failed due to a lack of a second, leaving both requests unapproved.