Robert Stein, a Manual High School graduate and current Head of School at Graland Country Day School, will be principal at Manual when it reopens this fall to ninth-grade students.

After a national search, the 10-member community committee said Stein emerged as the top pick because of his extensive leadership experience, commitment to students and strong vision for Manual’s future.

Last year, Superintendent Michael Bennet decided to close Manual High School because of low test scores and a high dropout rate.

"Rob has a proven track record of leading successful school reform," Bennet said. "We tapped one of the state's best school leaders to direct Manual into a new era of excellence — the Manual students and community will have the quality leadership they deserve."

He said Stein’s vision, instructional knowledge, integrity, and passion for student success will be instrumental in creating a premier high school at Manual.

"With a strong instructional team, committed staff, and community support, we will ensure that Manual is a model school which serves its students and community better than any urban high school in the nation," said Stein.

Manual High School currently is enrolling ninth-grade students for the 2007-2008 school year. Parents interested in enrolling their student or learning more about Manual High School can call 720-423-6300 or visit on the Internet: manual.dpsk12.org.