Dr. Isaac Solano’s story is rooted in pride: pride in his community, pride in Denver Public Schools and pride in the opportunities that education creates.
Growing in North Denver’s Globeville neighborhood, he learned early what belonging feels like. His journey began at Garden Place Academy, and though he briefly left the district for middle school, he felt a strong pull back to DPS. With family ties to North High School, where his mother and her siblings once walked the same halls, he returned and became a North Viking for high school.
Those formative years, surrounded by caring and supportive adults, sparked a lifelong commitment to education. Today, Dr. Solano has come full circle; not only as a DPS graduate but as a leader within the very district that shaped him.
In 2009, while a senior in high school, Dr. Solano earned the Gates Millennium Scholarship, a prestigious award that opened doors he never imagined. With that support, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Chicano and Latino Studies from the University of Wisconsin, a master’s degree in Education Policy from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Denver. These experiences deepened his passion for designing better pathways and support systems for students.
“I know exactly what DPS students face when they’re in our classrooms trying to learn the skills they need to succeed,” he reflected.
“I’m proud to be part of their journey as they figure out what they want to pursue and where they want to go,” he said.
Choosing to work at DPS was more than a career choice. It was a calling to give back to the community that shaped him and to inspire every student with the same sense of pride and possibility.
Investing in Future Leaders
As Manager of Leader Development, Dr. Solano leads the onboarding and development of first-year teacher leaders and deans, ensuring they have the tools to support students.
“We’re growing our own talent and equipping them to succeed in DPS, the largest school system in this region of the country,” he explained. “My team helps educators thrive in the classroom and in leadership roles across the district.”
He believes that leadership is not just about titles. It’s about building cultures where students and staff feel seen, valued and proud.
“Academic achievement is critical, but feeling welcomed is just as important. You can’t learn without it,” he explained.
“Everyone needs conditions that help them grow, and that looks different for each person. As we develop new leaders, we want to instill pride in DPS. That pride leads to retention, which ultimately benefits our students,” he said.
Creating Joy and Belonging
“I was an alumni scholarship recipient in high school, and now I get to give back as an alum and volunteer. North High School has an extremely dedicated and generous alumni community — neither organization would exist without our stakeholders’ support. I am thrilled to be part of a group of alumni who values education. Watching our endowment grow from approximately $600,000 to over $2 million dollars is something I’m proud of,” he said.
“I get excited when I see our students enjoying their learning,” he said.
“DPS is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment where all of our learners can thrive. Every day, students are developing the skills they need for success in life, and I’m honored to be a part of that.”
“When I reflect on my journey, I hope students choose paths that bring them happiness and fulfillment," he said. “That’s what education gave me. Whatever they pursue after high school, I want them to find joy, purpose, and yes — hopefully earn a good salary too.”
“I don’t expect anyone to follow my exact path,” he said. “But I’d love for them to see education as a door to opportunity — whatever that looks like for them.”
Building a Legacy of Possibility
“Developing the next generation of leaders isn’t about filling roles; it’s making sure every student has someone in their corner, encouraging them to dream big and find joy in their journey,” he said. “When we invest in our students and educators, we create a brighter future for all.”
