Jason Jacob: The Leader Behind Legend HSPosted on 09/25/2023
Turns out that spending time around kids is great preparation for leading a building of more than 2,200 teenagers. Legend High School Principal Jason Jacob said working at different sports camps during his youth and teenage years got him interested in working with kids. And as a former college athlete, he also fell in love with coaching kids. He attended the University of Northern Colorado which also drew him towards education due to the university’s teaching college.
Jason took a traditional path to becoming a principal. He taught science, primarily biology anatomy, and physiology, at Chaparral High School for nine years and was also the head boys basketball coach. He started his administrative career at Chaparral where he was a dean for a year and an assistant principal. He then had the opportunity to open Legend High School sixteen years ago as an assistant principal. Jason is currently entering his 10th year as the principal at Legend High.
Reflecting on his career, Jason said he’s most proud of opening Legend and helping shape the school that it has become by providing incredible opportunities for students and families.
“I like the opportunity to be part of so many different peoples' lives,” he said. “This includes students, staff and parents. Everyone has a story and a path that they take and I get to be part of that journey and hopefully help guide and support. I love helping others get where they want to be!”
Getting into classrooms and seeing teachers in action with students energizes him throughout the day. Jason shows staff appreciation by honoring a staff member of the week and giving them a front-row parking spot. He also recognizes staff birthdays with a card and staff apparel and plans lots of different activities during staff appreciation week with food and gift items.
Jason's daily routine includes working out early in the morning to combat stress. “If the weather is good, I like to take my dog on walks with my wife and talk about her day to take my mind off of mine,” he said.
Outside of work, you can find Jason exercising, hiking, cooking, pairing food with wine, and spending time with his wife and twin boys!
