Nurse Thornton Receives 2025 Joseph P. Spracale Commitment to Education Award

Congratulations to Shamley's longtime nurse, Partricia Thornton, for receiving the 2025 Joseph P. Spracale Commitment to Education Award from the TIE Foundation. The award was presented to Nurse Thornton at the TIE Foundation Dinner on January 31 in honor of her dedication to serving Shamley and the greater Tempe community.

About Nurse Thornton

Patricia Thornton, originally from Boston, grew up surrounded by healthcare professionals. Her mother was a school nurse, and her father served as a school doctor. At just seven years old, Pat began assisting her father during school football games by wrapping players' ankles and icing injuries—early experiences that would spark her lifelong passion for caring for others.

Patricia graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1980 and later earned her Master's degree from Arizona State University. Following in her parents' footsteps, she became a registered nurse and has dedicated the last 44 years to the profession, including over 30 years as a school nurse.

In 1994, Nurse Thornton began her career with Tempe Elementary, starting part-time at Rover Elementary. She soon moved to the position of school nurse at Laird (now Shamley) Elementary, where she has been ever since. When she started at Laird in 1995, the school was home to students who spoke 26 different languages. Patricia’s experience working with international students at her church made her uniquely suited to serve this diverse population.

Nurse Thornton sees her role as more than just a job—she considers it “a ministry.” She finds joy in helping others and making a difference in the lives of her students and the community.

How Patricia Makes a Difference:

• Volunteer Work: From 1976 to 2016, Patricia volunteered at a Christian camp in Maine. Although the camp closed in 2016, it has since reopened under new leadership, and Patricia plans to return and volunteer once she retires in the New England area.
   
• Community Support: Outside of her school responsibilities, Nurse Thornton helps students and families in need of transportation, offering rides for errands and appointments. She maintains close relationships with several families, staying in contact through calls and texts.
   
• Ongoing Connections: Patricia maintains a special bond with a former student from Shamley, now 34, who has cerebral palsy. They talk weekly and meet up regularly, demonstrating the deep, lasting connections she forms with her students.
   
• Access to Healthcare: Nurse Thornton is dedicated to helping underprivileged and international students and families find the healthcare they need, ensuring that all have access to the care they deserve.