The office staff in a school often become the heart of the building. They are the initial point of contact for anyone that enters – whether they are students, parents, volunteers, or visitors. 

For a school registrar, working in a school office is more than maintaining student records, or helping students with their schedules, it’s about representing the school they work in. This is the case for Sandy Patterson, School Registrar at Thunder Valley K-8. “I do whatever it takes to help parents know we care,” stated Patterson. 

Regardless of the role Patterson has worked in over the last 30 years, she has made it a goal to ensure students know there will always be a friendly face to greet them. 

Working in a school setting was a calling for Patterson, “I always liked working with people,” she recalls. “When I was in high school, I spent time working as an aide at an elementary school, that’s when I decided to go into education.”

After graduating from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education, Patterson became a substitute teacher for St. Vrain Valley Schools. Over the years, she worked as the Library and Attendance Clerk at Frederick Elementary and became the school Registrar in 2013 when Thunder Valley K-8 opened.

It is important to Patterson that students know they have adults who care about them, and can guide them towards their future because, “Children spend a good part of their lives with us during their formative years, and having someone there for them is something they get in public schools,” stated Patterson.

You will often see Patterson helping parents with paperwork, giving families school tours, or covering in the office and greeting parents. She has become the face of Thunder Valley since she is the first point of contact when families enroll in school.

“Sandy has been a pillar to the Frederick community,” shared Catrina Estrada, Principal at Thunder Valley. “She goes above and beyond to take care of families during the enrollment process and she is always a friendly face willing to support students, families, and staff members.” 

Reflecting on her time at Thunder Valley, Patterson’s most memorable moments are seeing how much students grow and develop through the years. “Watching their transformation from the beginning to the end and just how much they improve and gain confidence, it’s exciting,” shared Patterson. “You know you had an impact on them when you see them as an adult and they remember you.”

As she prepares for the next chapter in her life after retirement, she is excited to spend more time with her grandchildren, go for more walks and hikes, and explore new areas. “Her dedication to making Thunder Valley a warm community will be missed,” stated Estrada.