The Principal's Perspective

Hello Caregivers-

This is an exciting week ahead! First, I would like to acknowledge Cinco De Mayo! Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 which makes the day a symbol of courage, unity, and perseverance against the odds. Similarly, being a caregiver to a middle schooler is much the same; it becomes a daily expression of those same qualities which are needed to be successful in this parenting journey. Caregivers, like the people of Puebla, face challenges with strength and determination, often putting others first for the greater good of their families.

Just as Cinco de Mayo honors heritage and the power of coming together, we can use this occasion to celebrate the role parents play in preserving family and belongingness, nurturing growth, and building strong communities locally and beyond. Whether passing down traditions, supporting the academic and social emotional growth of your scholar, or simply showing up with love every day, you are everyday heroes—much like those celebrated on Cinco de Mayo. We salute your bravery and courage!

Spreaking of bravery- Bravery isn't always loud or dramatic, often you have to come in silent and strategic, much like in battle, and our teachers and staff members do it every single day!. It often looks like quiet strength, unwavering patience, and the willingness to show up every day for others. During Teacher Appreciation Week, we honor educators who demonstrate bravery in countless ways:

• Bravery in adapting to change and uncertainty.
• Bravery in advocating for students’ needs.
• Bravery in loving and believing in children who don’t always believe in themselves.
• Bravery in showing up with care, even on the hardest days.

Teachers don’t just teach content—they model courage, resilience, and heart. Staff members do not just show up to work, they SHOW UP and SHOW OUT! This week, we say thank you for the brave, often unseen work that our staff members do to shape the future.

We celebrate- the war is just beginning, but here we. are, ready to change the world for the better, caregivers and educators standing together, like the people at the Battle of Puebla!

May is a special month—one that invites us to reflect, learn, and grow as a community. At Nichols, we are proud to recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI), Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), and Mental Health Awareness Month. Each of these observances offers a powerful opportunity to celebrate identity, honor heritage, and affirm our commitment to the well-being of every individual in our school community. Everyone belongs HERE!

AAPI Heritage Month honors the rich histories, diverse cultures, and vital contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the fabric of American life. From building the transcontinental railroad to shaping today’s innovations in science, arts, and public service, AAPI communities have long played an essential role in the American story. By celebrating this heritage, we combat stereotypes and foster deeper understanding of the diversity within the AAPI experience. We are looking forward to our celebration on May 29th!

Jewish American Heritage Month recognizes the achievements and resilience of Jewish Americans throughout U.S. history. Jewish Americans have been instrumental in movements for justice, advancements in science, leadership in public service, and vibrant contributions to the arts and humanities. At a time when antisemitism remains a painful reality, JAHM reminds us of the importance of education, solidarity, and celebrating culture as a means of inclusion and unity. We stand as brothers and sisters united against hate towards others due to things such as their faith, religion, heritage or culture!

Mental Health Awareness Month underscores that mental health is just as important as physical health. This month encourages open dialogue, empathy, and proactive care. In a world that often demands more than we can give, prioritizing mental wellness is both an act of courage and community care. We stand with those facing mental health challenges and affirm that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. Our CARES team is always stepping forward to support our Nichols Community!

As we mark these observances, we are not only honoring the past—we are shaping a future rooted in respect, equity, and compassion. By learning together and supporting one another, we build a stronger, more inclusive school for all.

Let May be a month of reflection, connection, and celebration. WE STAND TOGETHER AS ONE!

Reminder, Wednesday is a half-day for students.

We want to remind families that food deliveries for students are not permitted during the school day, and we do not pull students out of class to retrieve delivered items. These interruptions are disruptive to the learning environment and detract from valuable instructional time.

If food is dropped off for a student, it will be stored in the refrigerator and given to the student at the end of the day.

Additionally, students are allowed a 10-minute grace period at the start of the day to finish their breakfast. To support their success, please ensure that your student arrives on time so they have the opportunity to eat and begin their day ready to learn.

Thank you for your partnership in helping us maintain a focused and respectful learning environment.

As the weather warms up and more students begin walking to school, we are asking all families to be especially cautious and follow our drop-off and pick-up procedures without exception.

Do not pull into the parking lot to drop off or pick up your child. This is extremely dangerous and creates unsafe conditions for students and staff.

Do not stop in the middle of the street to let your child out. Having students cross active traffic lanes puts them at serious risk.

We care deeply about the safe arrival and departure of every scholar. We need your cooperation to maintain a secure environment for all.

Please model safe behavior and follow all school traffic guidelines—our children are watching, and their safety depends on all of us doing our part.

Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.

If caregivers/families would like YouTube blocked on a student iPad, the request needs to come from the parent in an email to the Principal. Once a block is put in place, it remains on the device until a change is requested, via email — our technology team does not remove restrictions automatically each year. It’s important for the student’s educational team to know about any blocks, as they carry over year to year.

1. Homemade Card

A simple, yet sweet way to show you are thankful for the teachers in your student's life! Have your child make their teachers a card. Add some glitter and stickers, and they are sure to love it!

2. Painting or Drawing

Homemade gifts are the best. Get out the paint or markers, and let your child be an artist for the day. You can get an inexpensive canvas at your local craft store. Some stores even have coupons to use toward your purchase!

3. Donate Supplies

Teachers often purchase items out of their own pocket for their classrooms. Donating supplies like Crayons, glue sticks, white board markers, and pencils is always appreciated. You would be surprised how many pencils teachers go through in a day! Teachers are also thankful to receive tissue boxes and antibiotic wipes (two of my FAVORITE gifts when I taught).

4. Gift Card for a Pick-me-up

Teachers are ALWAYS running it seems, and they could always use a pick-me-up. A gift card for coffee or donuts is a nice way to show your appreciation.

5. Mason Jar with their Favorite Candy

You might have a Mason jar or other container lying around. Grab it and put the teacher's favorite candy in it (your child probably knows what it is!). Simple and sweet! Let you kiddo decorate the jar to put their own personal touch on it.

6. Plant or Flowers

Another sweet gesture is having your child pick out a plant or flowers for their teacher. You can take it a step further and buy a terracotta pot. Your child can decorate the pot and then you can add the plant to make it a one-of-a-kind gift. I also adopt plants -if you've ever been in my office, you know LOL!

7. Snack Box with Note

Staff members are very busy and often work through their lunches. Send in some snacks for them to munch on while they work. A variety of snacks and even a few water bottles will make their day!

Our Nichol's staff do so much for their students and deserve to be celebrated. I hope these simple ideas help!

Monday, May 5

• Gary Bartz presented by WDCB at Evanston SPACE, 7:30 PM, $30.00 - $50.00

• New ‘Cats to Old ‘Cats: Farewell Concert at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 7:30 PM, $8.00 General/$5.00 Student

Tuesday, May 6

• Irish Music Session at Sketchbook Brewing Evanston, 7:30 PM, No cover

• Richard Shindell at Evanston SPACE, 7:30 PM, $25.00 - $30.00

• Northwestern University Jazz Ensemble at Galvin Recital Hall, 7:30 PM, $8.00 General/$5.00 Student

• Evening of Brass at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 7:30 PM, $6.00 General/$4.00 Student

Wednesday, May 7

• Sandra Cisneros and Derek Bermel at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 7:00 PM, Free

• Juli Wood Trio at Prairie Moon Restaurant, 9:00 PM, $7.00