Dear Centennial Academy of Fine Arts Community,

Welcome to Centennial Academy for the 2024-25 school year! My name is Dan Cuoco, and I am honored to be the principal of Centennial Academy! We truly have the BEST school community, as well as deeply dedicated, talented professionals providing a quality, whole-child education for all our students.

Originally from Connecticut, I decided I was going to be a fifth-grade teacher when I was twelve years old. My mother ran a daycare in our home my entire childhood, and I credit my family with fueling my passion for teaching. During my schooling, I always valued and appreciated the teachers who tried to make meaningful, genuine connections with their students. I knew from an early age that I wanted to make those same connections with the students I would someday teach.

I attended the University of Delaware and received a degree in Elementary and Special Education. I began my career in Baltimore, Maryland, as a third, fourth, and fifth grade Special Educator. Teaching in Baltimore was an amazing experience in which I learned from our diverse students, staff, and community members who came from all over the world. In 2010, I moved to Denver and began teaching at Antelope Ridge Elementary in Cherry Creek Schools. I spent those years working with incredible educators and seeing the impact of rigorous learning experiences that inspire students to become life-long learners. I still regularly hear from former students and families, and there is no greater gift than knowing I made a difference in their lives.

I then spent three years as an assistant principal in several schools in CCSD. Those experiences solidified my core values of integrity, equity, determination, creativity, and collaboration, which foster a school culture that strives to be the best we can be every day. As a school leader, I believe inspiration is our top priority. The fundamental joy for learning that we establish with young children is why we love teaching. Students should be excited to share what they learned in school that day with their families.

Outside of school, I spend my time enjoying the sunshine and mountains. My favorite activities include hiking, skiing, biking, and golf. All these hobbies are better with family and friends, including my wife, Julia, our cat Fifi, and our dogs, Griff and Dottie. Each day is an opportunity to have fun!

I am thrilled to begin another school year and look forward to our exploration in learning. Please make sure to say hello when you see me around the building or outside for arrival and dismissal! If you have any questions or comments, or would like to meet with me, please do not hesitate to email, call, or stop by the office.

Sincerely,

Dan Cuoco

​Principal