Administration
Principal
Linette Sheridan
A new school year is upon us. This year marks Patriot’s 21st year of ROARING success. I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to serve the students, staff, families and community members of Patriot. It’s such a gift to be a Lion!
My journey as an educator began over 25 years ago. I have taught students pre-K through 6th grade as a grade level classroom teacher and interventionist. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk Jayhawk) and a Masters degree in Elementary Education from Colorado College. In 2016 I went back to school to study Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Denver and received my administrative license.
My husband, Sean, and I have been married for 26 years. We moved here from the west coast with the intention of only staying a handful of years. Over two decades later we are a family of six and call Colorado home. When we're not traveling, spending time in the mountains is our family’s absolute favorite. We all love to camp and snow ski. Some of us are runners and hikers while others of us are rock climbers and volleyball players. We also enjoy playing games, doing puzzles, hosting family and friends and simply hanging out in our backyard together. This year, my son, Henry, will be a junior at Colorado College and my daughter, Olivia, will be a freshman at CU Boulder. My younger two daughters, Margaret (10th grade) and Evelyn (8th grade), will attend school at Palmer High School and North Middle School in Colorado Springs School District 11. All four of them keep life full.
I’m looking forward to learning alongside the students, staff, families and community members of Patriot this year. This is a place full of meaningful traditions, committed learners and exceptional stories. My door is always open and I look forward to connecting with you and hearing your story as well as those of your children and families too. Our stories often connect us in unexpected and meaningful ways. Here’s to another amazing school year…may our stories intertwine and may we, together, continue the story of Patriot
Assistant Principal
Kathrin Polyefko
It is my honor to serve students, staff, and parents as the assistant principal at Patriot Elementary. This staff continually amazes me with their dedication to the education and development of our students.
This is my 23rd year in education, my 12th year at Patriot, and my 7th as an Assistant Principal. Before joining the D8 family, I served 10 years in District 11 where I taught kindergarten through second grade. At Patriot, I started as a first-grade teacher, ELD teacher, Instructional Coach and then AP. I love working with our military families (fun fact: Ft Carson was our first duty station after Germany).
My husband of 22 years and three children love to travel to other cultures and places within and outside the United States. I think this is why I enjoy working at Patriot. There is much diversity and things to explore and learn from our students and their families. At Patriot, we work hard every day to ensure our students will be successful. I look forward to an exceptional year and working with everyone!
Dean of Students
Ms. Angela Montuori
My name is Angela Montuori, and I am thrilled to serve as Patriot's Dean of Students this year. This marks my 10th year in education, all of which have been at Patriot Elementary. I am proud to a lifelong Patriot Lion!
I began my journey at Patriot as a 3rd grade teacher for six wonderful years. Following that, I taught Kindergarten for two years. I then transitioned to our instructional coach and interventionist positions, where I also supported student behavior. This experience ignited my passion for student support, leading me to the role of Dean of Students.
I am excited to collaborate with our dedicated staff to support our Patriot Lions, their families, and our community. Please let me know how I can support you and your family; it would be my privilege.
Thank you for your unwavering support of our school, staff, and students. I am confident that this year will be fantastic!
Counselor
Alicia Klinker
My name is Alicia Klinker, and I am the school counselor here at Patriot. This will be my 6th year being a part of the Patriot Elementary community. I have a Bachelor's degree in both Psychology and Women’s and Ethnic Studies from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. I also have my master’s in Counseling from University of Colorado Colorado Springs and recently completed my LPC.
I was born and raised in Colorado Springs and love being able to call it home. My husband, daughter, and I love the Avalanche, Broncos, Supercross, Formula 1 racing, and traveling as often as we can. We spend a lot of time outdoors, going to the zoo, reading, and watching movies as a family. I also recently rediscovered my love of reading and love getting lost in a good book!
I truly enjoy partnering with and supporting Patriot Elementary students and families and strive to improve the counseling program each year. If you ever need anything or have questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Psychologist
Heather Yates
For over twenty-five years, I have been an educator, with the last eight years serving as a school psychologist. I also have Master’s level training and experience in Art Therapy. Combining all these skills, those of a teacher, of a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, and of an Art Therapist, I am able to assist children to address and resolve whatever concerns that they may present. My sincere hope is that I am able to equip young people to recognize their innate strengths and giftings early on in their lives so that they can pursue their own kind of greatness. Although I have worked in every kind of school setting feasible, working in a school that is housed on a military base is my absolute favorite. As a former military kid, myself, I have a special affinity for children whose parents serve. I consider it an incredible honor and privilege to serve those who also serve.
Most recently, my husband and I moved from St. Joseph, Missouri, which is just north of Kansas City. However, I was born in California, and as is true with most military families, I have lived multiple places, including overseas. My favorite place, though, is beautiful Colorado, having been in love with the Rocky’s for decades. I consider it a great blessing to be able to look out my backdoor window and gaze upon the Pikes Peak, which inspired the penning of America the Beautiful, and specifically Purple Mountain Majesty. While at home, besides relishing the scenery and chatting with my husband of thirty years, I enjoy doing art, reading and creative writing projects. Eventually, I intend to publish a fantasy-fiction series for youth. I also enjoy playing with our Shiba Inu or petting one of our two Bengal cats. However, I enjoy my free time most when our son from Omaha comes to visit with our lovely, fun-spirited granddaughter. Grandkids are the absolute best!!