Our Admin Team

Hello Sand Creek Elementary Community!

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I serve as your Principal here at Sand Creek. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside dedicated educators who consistently prioritize the needs of our students. Our parent community is exceptional, always going above and beyond to support our school’s mission. And of course, our students hold a special place in my heart - their enthusiasm for learning and their radiant smiles brighten my day, every day!

A little about my journey: This will mark my 10th year as a school principal, a role I’ve embraced passionately since transitioning from my early career as an elementary teacher in rural education. Following my teaching experience, I pursued a Master’s Degree in Administrative Leadership and Policy Studies at CU Denver. Subsequently, I had the opportunity to serve as the Gifted Education Regional Consultant at East Central BOCES, where I supported gifted programs across 20 rural districts. My journey led me to my first principal position at the middle school level, and in 2020, I made the rewarding decision to move my family to the Front Range and assume the principalship here at Sand Creek. It has been a decision filled with fulfillment and joy.

My philosophy as an educational leader centers around the importance of building positive relationships with students, staff, and families. I firmly believe that a safe and nurturing learning environment is paramount for student success. Collaboration is key - I work closely with our staff to ensure that instruction is not only rigorous and engaging but also holistic, focusing on the whole child to foster academic and emotional growth. Visibility is another cornerstone of my leadership approach - I strive to be present in classrooms and within the community, fostering a shared commitment to our collective goals.

As a parent myself, I understand the importance of balancing work and family life. My four amazing children - Jaiden, Zach, Ethan, and Sienna - keep me grounded and remind me of the joys of parenthood. Whether we’re hitting the slopes, exploring hiking trails in the mountains, or cheering on our favorite teams at sporting events, family time is cherished.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as your Principal at Sand Creek Elementary. Together, let us continue to nurture a learning community where every child can thrive and achieve their fullest potential!

Proud to be an Eagle!

Principal, Sand Creek Elementary
ppekarek@dcsdk12.org

Dear Sand Creek Families,

As we embark on a new school year, I am excited to introduce myself as your Assistant Principal, Mrs. Anton. It is truly an honor to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community here at Sand Creek Elementary.

My journey in education spans over 13 years, beginning as an ABA Therapist where I discovered my passion for working with children with behavioral and social/emotional needs. This passion led me to become a special education teacher in Florida before moving to Colorado. Here, I earned my Masters in Exceptional Student Education with an Interventionist Specialist certificate and continued to pursue opportunities in leadership and problem-solving teams at both the building and district levels.

In July 2023, I joined the administration team at Sand Creek Elementary as Assistant Principal after completing my Educational Leadership and Principal License. Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of serving our community in various roles, including as a Mild-Moderate Needs teacher, member of the Building Leadership Team, and leader of our Personalized Learning and PBIS teams.

Outside of the school, my family and I are deeply rooted in the Sand Creek and Mountain Vista community. My husband, Michael, and I, along with our daughters, Ashlyn and Izzy, and our chocolate lab, Miela, enjoy spending time together traveling to the east coast to visit family and friends, engaging in water sports on lakes, attending live music events, and playing games like Monopoly and Rummikub.

I am committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. I look forward to partnering with you to ensure the success and well-being of all our students.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Jennifer Anton
Assistant Principal    
janton1@dcsdk12.org

• Students are at the Heart of All We Do...They are our Purpose!
• Collaborative Culture with Collective Responsibility
• Joyful learning for students and staff
• Open and Honest Communication
• Evidence-Based Instructional Practices
• Growth Mindset

We believe in “...cultivating a community of learners by behaving in a kind, caring,  honest,  and compassionate manner in order to challenge and inspire each member of the school community to become more than they ever thought possible.” - Jimmy Casas