Academy School District 20 leader named 2024 CO Elementary Distinguished Principal of the Year

DENVER — The Colorado Association of School Executives (CASE) is pleased to announce that Patrick Schumaker of Academy School District 20 has been named the 2024 Colorado Elementary Distinguished Principal of the Year. This award recognizes an outstanding principal at the elementary and middle levels, and Schumaker was selected as the 2024 honoree by representatives of the Colorado Association of Elementary School Principals (CAESP), one of seven CASE departments. The interview and selection process is rigorous and based on criteria that include leadership accomplishments, evidence of implementing proven best practices, school and student data, and feedback from staff, students, the community, and the nominee’s supervisor. 

Schumaker has been the principal of Chinook Trail Elementary School for 13 years and has worked in education since 1998. Under his leadership, Chinook's enrollment more than doubled, from 300 to 640 students. The Annual Character and Climate Survey results boast that 90% of students, staff, and parents have high satisfaction with the school. 

The Colorado Department of Education has recognized Chinook with a John Irwin School of Excellence nine times since 2011. Chinook was also recognized by the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award in 2011, 2012, and 2013. This school is only one of three elementary schools in the state to be a Colorado Model Autism and Significant Support Needs Program (COMASP), which was earned in May 2013 and has been maintained at this status. 

With a belief in hiring and supporting teachers who believe all students can achieve, creating a common vision for future goals, and developing systems to celebrate and monitor progress, Schumaker and teacher leaders are supporting their students at all levels.

“It is a privilege to have Patrick Schumaker at the helm of Chinook Trail Elementary School,” Jinger Haberer, Superintendent of Academy District 20, wrote. “His leadership inspires curiosity, kindness, academic achievement and hope for his staff and students. His commitment to excellence and strong parent and community partnerships promotes engaging learning experiences for students and a quality education for all.”

Schumaker is applauded for his abilities as a collaborative leader focused on community building, seen through a robust Parent/Teacher Association and other consistent community involvement. He has also been a part of developing Professional Learning Communities. 

“Mr. Schumaker has a remarkable ability to foster a positive culture for both staff and students,” Tacy Killingsworth, Director for Curriculum and Instruction for Academy District, wrote in her recommendation letter. “He consistently celebrates his staff and the work they do and at the same time pushes them to continue to grow in their craft.” 

Heather Woodward, Elementary Executive Director of Cherry Creek School District, chaired the selection committee. She shared that the selection committee was very impressed by Schumaker and that he has the “hallmark characteristics of a principal who exudes excitement and engagement,” with humility and authenticity. 

“He’s a tremendous colleague and asset to public education,” Woodward said. 
According to his peers, Schumaker is an inspiring and motivating leader. His personality and leadership style bring out the best in students, faculty, and staff so they can reach their goals. He is also capable of navigating unexpected obstacles and maintaining resilience during challenges. His support through new education initiatives and enhancing learning opportunities with technology has helped foster an environment to support everyone involved.  

“Through his empathetic approach and unwavering pursuit of seeing and believing in the best of all people, he has created an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, enabling individuals to reach their full potential,” Koryn Kessler, Chinook Trail Elementary School Assistant Principal, wrote in a recommendation of Schumaker. 

Schumaker attributed the award to the work of his team, community, and the students of Chinook. 

“It really is a true honor,” Schumaker said. “I see this as a celebration of the principalship as a whole, an acknowledgment of the great work that all of us do. This isn’t about a person; it’s certainly not about me. It’s about my team, our great students, and the community here.”

Schumaker received his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Kansas State University in 1992, his Master of Education in Special Education from Wichita State University in 1996, and his administration license from the University of Denver in 2002. He is a resident of Colorado Springs, CO. In addition to his role as principal, he is a member of the Colorado Association of School Executives, of which he was president from 2020-2021 and served as the Colorado Association of Elementary School Principals region 5a director from 2018-2019. He continues to serve as the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) state representative for the CAESP.