Mrs. Patton has served in education for 15 years. She is a graduate of St. John Fisher College and North Carolina State University with a BS in Elementary and Special Education and a Master's in School Administration. Mrs. Patton started her career in Johnston County Public Schools at Clayton Middle School. During her time as an educator, she has served as a middle school teacher, high school assistant principal, and central office administrator. After spending the last seven years in the high school world, Mrs. Patton could not be happier to return to middle school and is honored to serve as the principal of Innovation Academy. There is no better place for students and families than Innovation!

I am originally from the Western North Carolina mountains and have spent almost 20 years working for the NC Public School System. I have spent 10 years in Middle School, 8 years in High School, and 2 in Elementary.  Math and Career/Technical Education are my specialities, but I also spent time as a Healthful Living teacher.  I love to see students who have a heart for STEM and a love for learning. I love the outdoors including camping and working in my garden.  Cooking and trying out new recipes is a big stress reliever for me. Going to football games in the fall is one of my favorite things to do.  I love the Tar Heels, Carolina Panthers, and I’m becoming a fan of Hockey and the Carolina Hurricanes. I love spending time in the mountains or the beach.  I'm happy to be serving the students and community of Innovation Academy!! Go Pioneers!