Dear Smoky Hill High School Community,

It is with deep gratitude and excitement that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Smoky Hill High School. I am honored to serve this incredible community and to lead a school with such a strong tradition of academic excellence, student achievement, and community pride.

I am especially excited to return to the Smoky Hill feeder area, having previously served as Assistant Principal at Laredo Middle School from 2017–2020. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for the families, students, staff, and community that make this area so special, and I am grateful for the opportunity to return in this new role.

Over the past 24 years, I have proudly served the Cherry Creek School District in nearly every role within a school community: English teacher, Speech and Debate coach, Varsity Dance Team coach, Performing Arts Coordinator, Activities Director, Middle and High School Assistant Principal, and now Principal. I have also experienced this district as a parent, with both of my children graduating from Cherry Creek schools. This year, my daughter enters her senior year at Louisiana State University (Geaux Tigers!), and my stepson is actively volunteering at the University of Colorado Hospital.  I believe deeply in the mission and vision of this district and in the life-changing impact that schools can have on young people.

Smoky Hill High School has a rich legacy of academic excellence, championship athletics, outstanding arts programs, and tremendous community pride. Almost every day, I meet someone who tells me they stayed in this community because of their experience at Smoky Hill. That says so much about the strength of this school and the relationships built here over generations.

As principal, my commitment is to continue building on that legacy while helping shape the future of Smoky Hill High School. I believe students thrive when schools hold high expectations while also providing high levels of support. Every student deserves to feel known, challenged, supported, and proud to be a Buffalo.

The goal is simple: to ensure every Smoky Hill student graduates feeling prepared for their future, confident in their college and career pathway, and connected to this community.

I look forward to meeting students, families, staff, and community members at PTO meetings, athletic events, performances, and celebrations throughout the school year. Please do not hesitate to reach out, introduce yourself, or share your hopes for Smoky Hill High School.

I am excited for the year ahead and all we will accomplish together.

Sincerely,
Kelly Helm