PCK Weekly Newsletter

Hello PCK Community,

I wanted to highlight the significance of our upcoming Board of Directors Election on Wednesday, April 23. This election is a vital moment in shaping the future of our school, and we encourage all families to participate in this important process.

The Board of Directors plays a critical role in overseeing all aspects of our school’s operations. Their responsibilities include creating and enhancing policies, upholding the mission and vision of PCK, and providing the leadership necessary to guide our school forward. These individuals help ensure that every decision made is in the best interest of our students, staff, and broader community.

Strong leadership on the Board is essential to maintaining the excellence and integrity that define PCK. As such, it is important that our Board reflects the values, priorities, and vision of the families they represent. Your voice matters. By participating in the election and casting your vote, you are directly contributing to the direction and success of PCK. Your involvement helps ensure that our school continues to grow and thrive in a way that aligns with the hopes and expectations of our community.

I thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we can ensure a bright and successful future for PCK.

Warm regards,

Dr. Weyman

For this week’s spotlight, we wanted to share a special video that was created for our Gala in honor of PCK’s 30-Year Anniversary. In this short video, we asked several of our students to reflect on PCK’s past, look ahead to its future, and offer advice to students who will attend PCK in the years to come.

A common theme emerged from our feedback: PCK began as a small school and has grown into a vibrant community of learning. Our students emphasized the importance of focusing on academics, believing it to be the key to future success. They also encouraged future students to savor their time here—because it goes by faster than you think.

As the school year begins to wind down, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate 30 wonderful years of building a sanctuary for learning and character development. We are so proud of all that PCK has accomplished and look forward to continuing this important mission for the next 30 years and beyond.

Hello PCK Families,

I’m extremely excited to announce something that the SROs are presenting this summer, the DCSO Youth Academy. This year we’re offering not just the weeklong high school academy, but also two-day academies for elementary and middle school ages. These are free for kids to take part in and give them the chance to learn about law enforcement, see demonstrations of various jobs, and even take part in a bike rodeo!

The dates for the event by age group are:

High School (going into 9th through going into 12th): June 2 through 6

Middle School (going into 6th through going into 8th): June 12 and 13

Elementary (going into 3rd through going into 5th): June 9 and 10

If you are interested or would like more information, please reach out to me via email. The spots are first come/first serve and I’d love to see some PCK students there!

Stay healthy, happy, and safe,

Deputy Sandifer

lsandifer@dcsheriff.net

sro@ckcs.net

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—four new additions have joined our PCK community. Over the weekend, as part of our kindergarten and second grade science curriculum on life cycles, four baby chicks hatched in our Science Lab.

Our students have been closely observing the incubation and hatching process, and now they get to enjoy watching the chicks grow. These new fluffy friends have been appropriately named Nugget Jr., Omelette, Sunny, and Scrambled.

In addition to the chicks, our students have also been exploring the life cycle of butterflies. Currently, we have over 100 caterpillars throughout the building, and we’re eagerly anticipating their transformation in the weeks ahead.

While Field Day is still a little ways off, we’re already beginning to lay the groundwork for another fun and memorable event—and we need your help to make it happen.

We’re currently looking for volunteers that will help keep our students energized and engaged throughout the day. There are over 100 volunteer slots to be filled, and while that number may seem daunting, every contribution—big or small—truly makes a difference.

If you're able to help out, we would be so grateful. To sign up and claim a slot, simply click the button below.

We are so proud to celebrate our first graders and their wonderful performance in their Spring Concert. This event truly showcased the creativity, hard work, and growth of our students.

Events like these are more than just performances—they are opportunities for our children to build confidence, develop teamwork, and express themselves in new and meaningful ways. Experiences in the arts help create well-rounded learners who thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Thank you for joining us in recognizing all that our students have accomplished. We are excited to watch them continue to grow and shine.

Fiddler on the Roof Programming Considerations

Fiddler on the Roof is a classic musical theatre production featured prominently in the Core Knowledge Curriculum. Because of its connection to our curriculum, we have chosen to produce this show again on the PCK stage, but it is prudent to provide some storyline details for parents.

Fiddler is set in an Eastern European Shtetl around the time of the Russian Revolution and pre-World War II and was first performed in 1964. That said, we understand the world has changed significantly since the musical was first penned, and adjustments must be made. Originally, there was a staged pogrom at the end of Act 1. Yet, the PCK Music department feels strongly that there is a way to honor history and the story without reenactment; therefore, we have developed a poignant and deeply respectful scene. After all, between the lines of the story and in real life, many innocent people were caught in a dark time.

We have worked hard to portray this story with empathy and respect, and have been steadfast in conveying the true message of Fiddler—hope. There is always hope, and this story has much to teach us all.

We welcome everyone to this family-friendly production and look forward to seeing you there!

The deadline to purchase a yearbook is fast approaching, with all orders due by Friday, April 25. To purchase your yearbook, please use PCK’s unique school code: 1015343699083637. All orders must be placed through Treering.com.

The upcoming board election presents a valuable opportunity for our community to select the leaders who will help guide and shape the future of our children’s education. The candidates bring a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives, making this election an important moment for parents, educators, and stakeholders to engage and vote.

Each candidate offers a distinct vision for the school’s continued success and shares a strong commitment to delivering high-quality education for all students. We encourage you to review their bios below in preparation for the election on April 23.

Hi, I’m Shannon Carter, mom of two PCK boys who will be entering 6th and 8th grades

this next school year. We have been lucky enough to have been at PCK since my oldest

was three years old – in 2015! Like all of you, PCK was my family’s school choice and

it’s hard to believe how quickly the time flies with already having been part of the PCK

community for a decade.

I recently met a new PCK parent who was asking for some advice on how to navigate

PCK with her new kindergartener. I encouraged her, like I have encouraged so many, to

get involved and participate in this amazing school community. The PCK community has

seen my family through many of life’s ups and downs – we have met the most amazing

people, and we have formed lifelong friendships and relationships through this

wonderful school. I am so grateful for the support of the network of amazing parents,

dedicated students and devoted faculty and staff.

Throughout the last ten years I have committed to providing service to the school

wherever possible. From being classroom coordinator, volunteering my time, working

part time at the school as a kindergarten aide for two years and serving on the Board of

the PCK Foundation for two years. I come to you with a pledge to serve and work to

help make sure PCK continues to thrive and be successful for future generations.

Professionally, I spent twenty years working in Corporate Accounting and Finance at

Fortune 500 companies. I am now a local business owner in Parker – contributing to the

community in a whole new and exciting way. I am truly blessed to be part of the Parker

and PCK communities and I hope to bring a vast array of experience and skills to the

school board.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving

PCK and the Parker community.

Dear Parker Core Knowledge Board of Directors,

I am writing to formally declare my intent to run for a position on the Parker Core

Knowledge School Board of Directors. As a parent, public health professional and

current PTO Secretary, I am deeply committed to supporting the success and well-being

of our students, families, and staff.

I am an epidemiologist with 15 years of experience in infectious disease epidemiology,

public health, and infection prevention. Living most of my life in Colorado, I have spent

my career protecting the health and wellness of communities I serve. This includes but

has not been limited to pediatrics, immunocompromised, and Adams, Arapahoe,

Douglas and Elbert County residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am passionate

about evidence-based decision making and open communication. Outside of work, I

enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, reading, and working out.

With a Masters of Public Health and background in epidemiology, I bring data-driven,

health-conscious prospective to school policy and governance. My career in

epidemiology has taught me the value of prevention, strategic planning, and critical

decision making - skills that are especially relevant in shaping a safe, equitable, and

thriving learning environment. Throughout my work, I have collaborated with schools,

healthcare professionals, and local governments to implement strategies that promote

student well-being and academic success. I believe this expertise uniquely positions me

to contribute valuable insights to the school board, particularly in areas such as health

policy, crisis preparedness, and student wellness.

As PTO Secretary, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our parent community,

collaborating on school initiatives, and supporting communication between families and

administration. I’ve seen firsthand how strong partnerships and engaged leadership

can make a meaningful difference in school culture and student outcomes.

I am particularly passionate about promoting mental health resources, improving

communication between school and home, and ensuring our school continues to be a

safe, welcoming place where every student can grow and succeed.

If elected to the PCK school board, my key priorities will be:

Enhancing Student Health and Safety – Advocating for evidence-based policies that

support the physical and mental well-being of students and staff, including

comprehensive health education and wellness initiatives.

Strengthening Community Engagement – Encouraging open communication

between educators, parents, and public health professionals to create a collaborative

approach to student success.

Ensuring Data-Driven Decision-Making – Utilizing scientific research and community-

specific data to guide policies that foster a safe and effective learning environment.

I truly believe that PCK’s success has not happened by accident; it is a result of dedicated

parents and faculty impassioned to succeed. I would be honored to contribute my time,

energy, and expertise in service of our school community. Thank you for your

consideration.

Sincerely,

Ashley M. Richter, MPH, CIC

Dear PCK Families,

I am excited to introduce myself as a candidate for the PCK Board of Directors. My

name is Suzi Emmerson, though most know me as “Parker’s mom.” Parker is an

engaged fifth grader who has been part of PCK since kindergarten, and I spend much of

my time cheering him on from soccer fields, hockey rinks, and football sidelines.

Over the years, I’ve served as Classroom Coordinator and volunteered at events like

Ameritowne, field trips, and Trunk or Treat. Parker’s involvement in activities like

Calligraphy Club, Homework Club, and his role as Nemo in last year’s school play has

allowed me to take an active role with teachers in different departments and school

activities and gain a better understanding of how the school operates.

I graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Business and

Criminal Justice. My passion for law (and a desire for a change in climate), led me to

Denver, where I enrolled at the University of Denver College of Law. After one semester,

I pivoted to a career at Arrow Electronics, where I’ve spent 25 years in Capital and

Strategic Operations Management. As Global Marketing Director, I manage $400M in

inventory and $5 billion in annual sales while leading diverse teams, navigating complex

tariff regulations, addressing supply chain capacity challenges and fostering cross-

functional collaboration to ensure operational efficiency.

In addition to my full-time career, my husband and I also own two franchises, which

have allowed me to deepen my community engagement. Balancing entrepreneurship,

professional responsibilities, and active involvement in my child’s education has given

me a unique perspective on decision-making, teamwork, and advancing growth in both

business and academic environments.

Serving on the Board would allow me to contribute my expertise in communication,

leadership, and strategic planning to help uphold the school’s vision and create

pathways for students to thrive academically and personally. I am eager to play an

active role in shaping policies, improving academic outcomes, and driving positive

relationships between PCK and the community.

Thank you for your consideration,

Suzi Emmerson

Hello!

My name is Katherine Carroll (some of you may know me as “Katie”), mom to three sons currently in 2nd, 4th and 8th grades at PCK and one daughter currently a sophomore at Lutheran High School. Our family has been part of the PCK community since my oldest was in preschool, 14 years ago. We consider it a great privilege to be part of the PCK family for such a long time. The long standing reputation of great teachers, participative parents, successful students, and a tight knit community initially drew us to want to be part of PCK back in 2011 and our first hand experience seeing our children succeed in such an amazing place have kept us at PCK.

I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Business with a triple focus on Marketing, Management and Communications from Regis University. I went on to earn a Masters Degree in Higher Education with a focus on Leadership Development from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. During college I worked in Student Activities planning events for the students on a small scale including comedians, magicians and other entertainment and on a larger scale, the new student orientation two years in a row. During graduate school, I worked in Student Involvement alongside University Administration to plan new student orientation two years in a row, I also co-chaired the University’s summer concert series two years in a row as well as planning several other events. In addition to working with the administration, I also worked supervising students helping them plan entertainment events for the student body including several concerts, comedians, and a variety of cultural events.

On a personal note, I’ve had the privilege of being a stay at home mom with all four of my kids, which blessed me with the availability to volunteer often at PCK. Through the years I have spent my time helping with various projects (Thursday folders, Classroom Coordinator, library helper, etc.) and on a greater scale, as a member and chair of the 8th grade graduation committee in 2022-2023 and again currently during this 2024-2025 school year. In my spare time I love to watch my kids play sports, explore the Colorado outdoors, read and spend time with my lovely little family. My professional experience combined with my extensive experience as a mom and PCK volunteer makes me a great candidate for the PCK Board of Directors.

You’re probably wondering why I’m interested in joining the Board after all this time and why I haven’t applied sooner. It’s no secret that our special place has endured a lot of change during the recent few years. While leadership positions have changed, teachers have come and gone, families have graduated, and new families have joined, the heart of the PCK community remains the same: a community built between administration, teachers, staff and parents all focused on the success of our kids. It’s imperative that the organizations within PCK stay strong and focused and that is only possible with committed volunteers who share a common goal; maintain great teachers, encourage and support participative parents, successful students and nurture a tight knit community.

Now is the time I feel the most compelled to contribute to the PCK community in a new way and I firmly believe I can be a voice that will help keep the heart of PCK strong and true. As we know, the PCK Board of Directors is responsible for focusing on the future of the school. If elected, I believe I can provide a unique perspective to the Board as a long time member of the PCK family. I can provide insight based on our family’s experience with the administrative leaders, teachers and organization members over the course of the last decade. If elected, I will contribute to the PCK Board of Directors through the lens of a longstanding member of the PCK community who is committed to leading the school by staying focused on maintaining our proud reputation of great teachers, participative parents, successful students and a tight knit community. Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Kindly,

Katherine Carroll

Dear PCK Community,

I would be honored to continue to serve the PCK Community as a member of the Board of Directors. My family joined the PCK Community in the fall of 2020 when my son Theodore started kindergarten. Theodore is now in fourth grade and absolutely loves PCK and has great pride in being a Cougar. My middle son Henry joined the PCK family this year as a Kindergartener. It is the ability to instill pride and excitement around education that when coupled with PCK’s mission to “…provid[e] its students an academic advantage by building a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and character, while challenging each individual to become a critical thinker, responsible citizen and future leader” that makes PCK special, unique, and successful at preparing children for academic excellence. It is because of the growth that I have seen in Theodore and Henry, their pride in the school, and PCK’s mission that I desire to continue to serve on the PCK Board. But, beyond the growth of my own kids, it is PCK’s incredible ability to prepare the next generation of academically rigorous leaders that inspires me. PCK continues to outperform other schools in the district and across the state. I am committed to working with our talented administration and staff to ensure that success not only continues but is elevated. Here is a little background on me and my experiences that I believe are relevant to the PCK Board of Directors.

Currently, I am the Executive Director of a conservation-focused non-profit organization – the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust. In this role, I lead a staff of 20, work closely with a 19-person board of directors to establish and implement strategic direction for the organization, and oversee a $2.7M annual operating budget and more than $14M in financial assets. I understand non-profit financials and accounting. I currently serve as the Treasurer of the PCK Board and have worked closely with the administration on plans to build a secure financial future for PCK. I also serve on the board of directors of several other non-profits.

I have a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management from Colorado State University and two graduate degrees from the University of Denver – a Master of Natural Resources Law Studies and a Master of Business Administration. I believe my experience on the PCK Board, my education, experience, and skills in non-profit management, organizational governance, and public policy will be beneficial to PCK.

I view the Board’s role within the community as supporting the advancement of PCK’s mission, ensuring the prudent use of assets, and providing oversight into compliance with laws and regulations. If elected, I commit to continuing to work closely with fellow board members, the administration, and staff to ensure that PCK continues to offer the best academic experience possible.

Sincerely,

Erik L. Glenn

As a proud PCK parent with a child currently in 5th grade, Pam Whitehorn is a

passionate and forward-thinking leader within the PCK community. With a strong

background in education – as a former teacher, director of an afterschool academic

program, and a curriculum writer – she brings over thirteen years of experience in

education to her candidacy for the PCK Board of Directors. Pam earned a Bachelor’s

degree in Elementary Education with a Middle School Extension in Mathematics and a

Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from SUNY Fredonia. She currently holds

teaching certifications for grades K-6, and 6-12 Mathematics in both Colorado and New

York.

As President of The Foundation at PCK for the past three years—and a Foundation

board member for three years prior—Pam has worked closely with school leadership to

strategically fund initiatives that support academic excellence for all students and

community engagement. From leading fundraising events to championing teacher

grants and school-wide campaigns, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment

to PCK’s mission. Her proactive leadership, hands-on approach, and deep commitment

to collaboration reflect an unwavering dedication to both student success and the

overall vitality of the PCK community. Pam’s broad experience and collaborative spirit

position her to be a thoughtful and effective voice on the PCK Board of Directors.

Pam is interested in joining the PCK Board of Directors because she deeply values the

role the Board plays in shaping the school’s culture, direction, and long-term success.

She believes the Board has a responsibility not only to uphold PCK’s legacy of

academic excellence, but also to shape and support our school community; PCK Board

members should take the lead in fostering open communication – actively engaging with

the PCK community and serving as a trusted bridge between families, students, and

school administration to ensure every voice is heard, valued, and reflected in the

decisions that shape the future of PCK.

Pam is committed to being that kind of Board member: approachable, collaborative, and

fully invested in the continued growth and success of PCK and its community.

The End-of-Year Survey for the 2024-25 school year is now open and will remain available until Tuesday, May 13 at 4:00 p.m.

Each year, this survey serves as a valuable tool to help us identify areas of growth for our school community. In particular, your feedback will guide our efforts to strengthen fundraising initiatives and enhance communication between families and school organizations.

While the survey includes a range of questions, none are required, and we welcome whatever input you’re able to provide. Your voice matters—every response helps shape the future direction of PCK.

Survey results will be reviewed at our meeting on May 14, and we look forward to using your insights to continue building a strong, supportive school environment.

For this week’s Volunteer Spotlight, we are excited to recognize and celebrate the incredible group of volunteers who helped make our recent Gala such a wonderful success. From our talented event coordinators to the generous basket donors and hardworking volunteers behind the scenes, your dedication and creativity were the driving force behind an unforgettable evening.

We are truly grateful for the time, effort, and heart each of you poured into this event. It is because of volunteers like you that we’re able to host events that bring our community together and raise vital support for PCK.

Your contributions directly impact the students, staff, and overall spirit of PCK. Whether you donated an item, assembled a basket, coordinated logistics, or simply showed up to support the event—please know how much we appreciate you. Your generosity and enthusiasm make a lasting difference, and we are so thankful to have you as part of the PCK family.