Founding Principal Matt Lakis has a busy schedule, but we managed to grab some time to ask him five questions about himself. Read below to learn more about Matt and what he values as an educator.

When did you know you were going to be an educator? What led you to that choice?

Like many high school students, I wasn’t sure what career path I wanted to pursue. I considered journalism, law, and business, but none of them truly excited me. 

It wasn’t until I met my 11th grade English teacher, Mr. Alletto, that I realized teaching could be something I’d be good at and something I’d love doing every day. Before his class, I saw myself as a below-average writer and an average thinker. But his humor, genuine interest in me as a person, and passion for teaching skills like critical thinking, communication, and inquiry helped me see my potential. For the first time, I believed what other teachers had told me before — that I had the ability to make an impact if I applied myself.

Looking back, it seems obvious. I worked at a kids’ summer camp, I was surrounded by incredible coaches and mentors, and I thrived in environments where I could guide and inspire others. Teaching was my way of paying it forward, and once I made that connection, I never looked back. 

What are you most proud of from your time as Principal of Woodward-Granger High School?

One of the things I’m most proud of is how we empowered students to take ownership of their school community. A great example was when a group of students approached me about changing the dress code. Instead of making the decision for them, I challenged them to lead the effort. They spent days researching policies, surveying peers, and even planning professional development for staff. Their work culminated in a confident presentation to the entire faculty, where they fielded tough questions and made a compelling case. In the end, the school board approved the policy exactly as they had written it. That moment reaffirmed for me that when students take the lead and adults step back to support them, incredible things can happen.

Another defining moment came on a professional development day. The power went out right after lunch. In many places, that might have been an easy excuse to head into the weekend early, but our staff didn’t waver. Instead, we gathered in a dimly lit lunchroom and continued deep conversations about grading and assessment practices for hours. That moment solidified what I already knew — we had built a culture of commitment and trust, where our team was willing to have hard conversations and do the work, no matter the circumstances.

Both of these experiences reflect what I believe great schools should be — places where students are empowered to lead and where adults are deeply committed to continuous growth. Those are the same values I bring to Des Moines Prep as we build something special for our students and families.

The Des Moines Prep mascot is the Trailblazers. What made you choose that and how do you think it represents the values and mission of Des Moines Prep?

Maybe it’s too “on the nose”, but I sincerely believe that the Trailblazer is the perfect representation for our mission. A trailblazer is someone who forges new paths, embraces challenges with courage, and leads the way for others — just like the visionary leaders we aim to develop.

At Des Moines Prep, we believe in preparing students to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with integrity, empathy, and excellence. Trailblazers don’t wait for opportunities; they create them. They persevere through obstacles, innovate, and inspire those around them. That mindset is reflected in everything we do, from our rigorous academics to our emphasis on leadership, service, and real-world problem-solving.

What most excites you about the opportunities at Des Moines Prep?

What excites me most is the community we’re building. We want students and families who are looking for more, who are fearless in pursuing their goals, and who are excited and optimistic about the future. We aren’t just opening a school. We’re creating a place where young people are truly known, where their potential is recognized, and where their dreams are taken seriously.

I was at an event recently when a parent came up to me and said, “I know no school is perfect, but the chance to send my child somewhere that genuinely believes in them, that sees who they are and where they want to go is an answer to our prayers.” That moment stuck with me because it shows how dedicated families are to preparing their children for the future. Families aren’t looking for easy answers; they’re looking for a place that will challenge and support their child in equal measure, a place that will walk alongside them in shaping their future.

The most exciting part? We get to do this together. The students who walk through our doors will be trailblazers — not just for themselves, but for their families and this city. 

Tell me one thing that you want every Des Moines Prep student to know. 

You deserve a school where you feel safe and valued every single day. You deserve people who see you — not just for who you are now, but for who you can become. You deserve teachers and mentors who will listen to you, believe in you, and always give you the benefit of the doubt. And you deserve a community that will move mountains to make sure you have every opportunity to chase your dreams.

At Des Moines Prep, we will challenge you, push you, and hold you to the highest expectations because we will know what you are capable of. And every step of the way, we’ll be right beside you, making sure you have everything you need to create the future you want.