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Military Families

Doherty High School proudly supports its strong connection to military families in Colorado Springs through dedicated efforts like our military liaisons, Elisa Villarruel and Lindsay Zandarski, who provide invaluable resources and support. Throughout the year, we actively recognize and celebrate the contributions of military families. most notably during the Month of the Military Child we honor our military connected students at home games, tied purple ribbons around our trees, and conducted a spirit week. Our annual Veterans Day assembly serves as a powerful tribute to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans within our community. Furthermore, Doherty High School participates in Wreaths Across America, with students and staff joining together to lay wreaths at local cemeteries, ensuring that the memory of our fallen heroes is kept alive.

Purple ribbon on tree in honor of Month of the Military Child

 

Veteran speaking Veterans Day Assembly, presenting Doherty with a Purple Heart Community sign

 

Wreath laying on the gravesite of Daniel T. Griffin

 

Military Liaisons:

Our Purple Star Liaisons are committed to the success of military-connected students. By providing a steady point of contact, they help students maintain academic and emotional stability during frequent relocations or deployments. Beyond direct student support, our Liaison fosters a school-wide culture of understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices of our military families.

Lindsay Zandarski
lindsay.zandarski@d11.org
719-328-6412

Elisa Villarruel
elisa.villarruel@d11.org
719-328-6493

Military Family Life Counselor:

Brett Murphy, MA, LPC, is a Military & Family Life Counselor who is attached to Peterson Space Force Base working in Jenkins Middle School and Doherty High School. Brett has his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health, is licensed as an LPC in Texas, Colorado, Florida, Missouri, & Georgia with 12 years of experience working in a number of different settings. Please feel free to reach out to Brett with any needs.

Consent Letter

Peterson SFB School Liaison Program Manager

The School Liaison is the primary educational advocate for military families. They specialize in Pre-K-12 school transitions, helping military-connected students navigate challenges like registration and varying academic requirements. By fostering partnerships between the installation and local schools, they ensure students receive the necessary resources and support to achieve academic and social success.

School Liaison Program Manager

Jackie Wickham
719-556-3152