Alex Marrero

Alex Marrero proudly serves as the Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, a role he has held since Spring 2021. As the leader of Colorado's largest school district, he oversees a community of nearly 85,000 students and 14,000 staff across over 200 schools, with a budget of 1.42 billion dollars. Marrero, the son of a Cuban refugee and a Dominican immigrant, understands firsthand and advocates for the diverse needs of his students.

Under Marrero's guidance, the district has seen a historic rise in graduation rates, setting a new standard for student achievement. He spearheaded the development and implementation of the district’s first-ever equity-based strategic plan, highlighting his commitment to inclusivity and diversity. He has been instrumental in negotiating contracts that raised teacher salaries to the most competitive levels in the state and established a living wage for all non-instructional staff. His tenure has also seen significant enhancements in school safety and cybersecurity, contributing to a more secure learning environment for students and staff.

Marrero's leadership at Denver Public Schools has garnered widespread recognition and accolades. His achievements include receiving the Leadership and Excellence in Education Award from the Association of Dominican-American Supervisors and Administrators and being named National Administrator of the Year by the Association for Latino Administrators and Superintendents. The National School Public Relations Association recognized him as a 2022 Superintendent to Watch. In 2023, the District Administration Leadership Institute honored him as Superintendent of the Year. He received recognition as an outstanding administrator from the Latino Caucus of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators. Additionally, in the same year, K12Drive selected him as one of five Superintendents to Watch.

Prior to his current role, Marrero served as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction in New Rochelle, where he became the first Latinx head of the city’s school system. His experience in education extends to significant positions within the East Ramapo Central School District and the NYC Public Schools.

Marrero holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Fordham University, a Master's degree in Counseling from Manhattan College, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Russell Sage College. He has earned several professional certificates and diplomas, including a Certificate in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University and an Executive Coaching Certificate from Columbia University.

In his broader professional commitments, Marrero serves as an Executive Board Member for the Council of Great City Schools, a member of the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Academic Partnership Council, and is the President-Elect of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, with his presidency beginning in October 2024.

 

Marrero's philosophy centers on empowering every student, regardless of their background, to overcome obstacles and become innovative leaders in their fields, reflecting his own personal journey and commitment to educational excellence.