Sean DePaula has handed numerous awards out to students during his career as teacher, vice principal, and athletic director.
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Nederland Middle-Senior High School students and staff line the hallways and congratulate Vice Principal and Athletic Director Sean DePaula on his Impact on Education award.
Sean DePaula is deeply committed to the students at Nederland Middle-Senior High School. Above all, he is a husband to Heidi and father to Tyler.
Students and staff congratulate Sean DePaula with high fives and cheers.
NEDERLAND — Sean DePaula has handed numerous awards out to students during his career as teacher, vice principal, and athletic director. This time, it was his turn to receive kudos.
The Impact Awards in Boulder Valley School District honor individuals who are making an extraordinary impact on students and their learning. The awards are through Impact on Education, a nonprofit foundation for the Boulder Valley School District.
DePaula has been the Vice Principal and Athletic Director at Nederland Middle-Senior High School (NMSHS) for five years, but his contributions to the school far exceed his two official titles. Nederland Principal Caleb Melamed submitted the nomination with the following words from the person who nominated DePaula:
"Sean not only took the position of Assistant Principal, but also Athletic Director; wearing two hats minimum a day! Since then, there have been there three principals, but Sean has remained steadfast. He is committed to our mountain community and brings a clear, positive, and honest approach to every student and staff member at our school."
From a student's perspective a couple sixth-graders said DePaula is "Funny, he is just funny." When pressed for a more clarifying answer they said, "He is really good at making Dad jokes. And he is very kind, calm, and helpful."
Nederland High School's Spanish teacher and boys' and girls' soccer coach Luis Alberto Gonzalez said of his colleague, "It is with great admiration and joy that we celebrate Mr. DePaula as the recipient of the Impact Award. His leadership is truly inspiring, grounded in strong values that positively shape and uplift our entire community.
"Mr. DePaula is not only an exceptional leader, but also a dedicated mentor who guides others with wisdom, kindness, and integrity. His presence makes a meaningful difference, and his commitment to supporting those around him reflects the very best of what a community member should be.
"Above all, he is a remarkable human being whose actions speak louder than words. This recognition is truly well deserved."
DePaula, along with the coaches, champions sportsmanship at NMSHS that is evident on the field, court, and courses. A Nederland High School student commented about how interactive he is with the school community.
"He drove to the Nordic State Championships at Snow Mountain Ranch this year," she said. "He comes to our fundraisers. He is super positive. He does not yell at us; he talks with us."
DePaula has the ability to connect with staff and students of all ages. His attitude is welcoming and genuine, they said.
Melamed said, "Sean has shown a deep commitment to our school and mountain community that is truly rare."
From a student's perspective, "Mr. DePaula puts a lot of effort into the school. He genuinely asks how we are and cares about us. He cares about the students."
