Topeka's Top "20 Under 40" Sarah Lucero

Photo by Nathan Ham

Sarah always knew that she wanted to be a teacher, and that goal motivated her to be the first in her family to graduate from college. As the principal at Scott Dual Language School, Sarah’s focus is not only on her students, but also on strengthening the neighborhood where her school is located. She has networked with community organizations such as ARTSConnect, United Way and the Tonantzin Society to build lending libraries, establish a community garden, paint mural projects and increase morale to rebuild the neighborhood pride.

During her tenure, Scott has been recognized for becoming the first bilingual magnet school, being the only school in Kansas to receive an International School of Excellence in Spanish Award, and a State of Kansas Success Showcase School, as well as a National School of Improvement (IndiStar) Spotlight. Through her work, Sarah has received the Women of Excellence in Education Award through the YWCA and was named Topeka Administration Association Elementary Administrator of the Year in 2016.

Sarah is a strong supporter of the North Topeka Arts District and volunteers her time there through events that benefit ARTSConnect and Ballet Folklorico de Topeka. She serves as board director for the Topeka Community Foundation and The Salvation Army, and has helped raise nearly $6,000 for Toys for Tots.

Sarah has a daughter, Serena (10).

“Sarah does more than serve as an administrator at an elementary school. She “owns” the education that each of the children at her school are receiving.” —Marsha Pope Topeka Community Foundation