Mr. Jacob Lambert Named Central High School Principal

On Thursday, April 27, the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) announced Mr. Jacob Lambert as the next Central High School Principal, beginning with the 2023-2024 school year. He replaces Ms. Leticia Avalos, who served as the school's leader since 2018 and will transition to Principal Coach for the District next school year.

Mr. Lambert is from central Illinois and is the son of a teacher and a United States Army Staff Sergeant. He earned a degree in special education at Eastern Illinois University to become a third-generation teacher. He taught for two years in Illinois before moving to Arizona. Lambert taught in the Tolleson Union High School District for two years before joining the PXU family as an Exceptional Student Services teacher, and coached cross country and track & field at Cesar Chavez High School.

In 2018, Mr. Lambert was selected as the Professional Development Specialist at Central High School and moved to Assistant Principal of Instruction after just one year. Two years ago, he became the Assistant Principal of Registration. In this role, he collaborated with instructional leaders and district personnel to grow the course catalog, increase culturally-responsive course offerings, and expand Dual-Enrollment and Advanced Placement opportunities.

"Mr. Lambert is an energetic and enthusiastic leader who focuses on the needs of our students, staff, and families to provide pathways for all to grow and succeed," PXU Superintendent Dr. Chad Gestson said, "He is a courageous, committed, and creative leader. We look forward to years of success at Central High School under his leadership."