The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is proud to announce Mrs. Patty Zoratti as the new Associate Principal of St. Michael’s School in Pincher Creek for the 2026/2027 school year. She will be stepping into the role as Mr. Mark Wynder has chosen to transition back into the classroom full-time.
Mrs. Zoratti’s connection to St. Michael’s runs deep. She graduated from the school 36 years ago before attending the University of Alberta for two years and transferring to the University of Calgary, where she earned a Bachelor of Kinesiology. In 2008, she returned to university to earn her Bachelor of Education with a science major from the University of Lethbridge.
Both Mrs. Zoratti and her husband are proud St. Michael’s alumni whose children were all "Dragons." Born and raised in Pincher Creek, the couple now ranch west of town and are incredibly proud to call the community their home.
Since beginning her teaching career at St. Michael’s in 2011, Mrs. Zoratti has taught every grade from Kindergarten through Grade 8, with the exception of Grade 1. Throughout her career, she has taken a leadership role in implementing the school's SPACES reporting platform and Collaborative Response model. She consistently seeks out opportunities to grow her professional practice to better help students deepen their understanding.
In welcoming Mrs. Zoratti to this position, Superintendent Chantel Axani shares:
"We are thrilled to appoint Patty as Associate Principal of St. Michael’s School. As a teacher leader whose profound Catholic faith and vibrant spirit have long enriched the fabric of the school community, she makes this transition into a formal leadership role as a natural extension of her years of dedicated service."
Mrs. Zoratti draws daily inspiration from scripture:
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." — Philippians 2: 3-4
Reflecting on this verse, she shares:
“Philippians 2:3-4 serves as the cornerstone of my philosophy as an educator and leader. Throughout my life, whether through coaching, volunteering, or taking on leadership roles, I have believed that true progress is a collective effort. To me, this scripture is a call to servant leadership—a reminder that my role as Associate Principal is not to seek personal recognition, but to elevate our entire community. I am committed to leading by example and, in the spirit of humility, drawing upon the diverse expertise and wisdom of our staff and families. By looking to the interests of others first, we ensure that every decision we make is centered on the growth and well-being of their students.”
Principal Karen Schmidt also shares her enthusiasm for Mrs. Zoratti’s appointment:
"With over a decade of dedicated service to St. Michael’s School, Patty is a proven educator whose passion for children is rooted in her deep commitment to our Catholic faith. Having witnessed her teaching excel across various grade levels and build meaningful connections through our athletics program and community events and activities, I have full confidence in her transition to Associate Principal. Patty is a vibrant member of our school community who leads with a servant’s heart. Her contagious, joyful energy is a gift that elevates everyone around her, and I am certain her leadership will empower our students to live out our motto: 'Rise Above! Inspire Greatness!'"
Mrs. Zoratti feels deeply humbled and excited to step into the role of Associate Principal at St. Michael’s. She views the school as her home and feels a profound calling to serve this community in this new capacity. She is eager to support both staff and students in discovering and utilizing their unique, God-given gifts to reach their fullest potential.
Holy Spirit Catholic School Division is pleased to formally congratulate Mrs. Zoratti on her new appointment. The division remains deeply grateful for her continued service and is confident that she will continue to foster the same high level of dedication and leadership that have long characterized her contributions to the school community.