The Principal's Perspective
February 2-6, 2026
Welcome to February, Nichols families!
We have officially arrived at the second month of the year. While it is the shortest month on the calendar—and I anticipate it will be the coldest—there is a distinct, growing warmth within our school community. This is a month dedicated to resilience, courage, justice, humanity, and love. I’ve never been one to believe in mere coincidence; instead, I believe in the beautiful interweaving of ideas that reveal their connectedness at the exact moment we are ready to receive them.
As I reflect on the many facets of February, the phrase "A Tapestry of Humanity" captures perfectly what this season represents. Thread by thread, we are connected to one another. Some threads are long, others short; some are brightly colored, some neutral, and others rich and deep. There are threads that zigzag through the weave and others that run straight, while some curve perfectly to bind the entire piece together.
With February being Black History Month, I find myself reflecting on how love and humanity converge to build this tapestry. We take this time to acknowledge the profound contributions of African Americans to the very fabric of this country—contributions often born out of a fierce, unshakable love for justice and community. It is that same love, embedded in every one of us, that will keep us warm through the winter chill.
It is no accident that Valentine’s Day sits right in the heart of this month. While we often think of paper cards and powdered candy hearts with messages like "I Love U," there is a deeper bridge between the legacy of Black History and the spirit of Valentine's Day: The Power of Self-Love. The history we honor this month is a masterclass in resilience. However, resilience isn't just about "toughing it out"—it is rooted in the radical belief that one’s own life and humanity have inherent value. To truly love others, to fight for justice, or to lead a community, we must first practice the art of taking care of ourselves. We cannot truly be resilient without first loving who we are.
In times of adversity and struggle, self-love acts as our greatest suit of armor. It protects us from the storms of self-doubt, the thunder of temptation to give up, and the hurricanes of hurt. Yet, this armor is not just a shield; it is an impenetrable reservoir. It is a space meant to store, regulate, and control our energy. As the saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. You cannot flow from your reservoir if you allow it to be depleted. This applies to all of us—parents and educators alike. Taking the time to rest, to reflect, and to care for your own mental and physical health isn't a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the foundation of the resilience we need to navigate life’s challenges and the fuel that allows us to show up fully for our children.
This February, let’s commit to honoring those who have been integral to the fight for justice and humanity by nurturing the light within ourselves. When we prioritize our own humanity, we teach our children how to do the same.
As you share love with others this month, remember to love yourself first. This isn't being selfish—it is being self-sustaining. Sustain and protect the light that is you; do not let it dim, for the world is already dark enough.
At Nichols Middle School, we take great pride in our scholars’ achievements, whether on the court or on the stage. To ensure these events remain safe and enjoyable for all, and to ensure that our school building is kept clean and in good condition, we are implementing the following protocol:
1. Mandatory Parent Supervision Scholars will no longer be allowed to attend after-school events (this does not include clubs) unless they are accompanied by their own parent or legal guardian for the duration of the event.
Please Note: For safety and accountability purposes, parents may not "stand in" or act as chaperones for students other than their own children. Each scholar must have their specific parent/guardian present.
2. The Ticket Entry System To enter any after-school event, students must first exit the building at dismissal. Students will be able to enter the building 10 minutes prior to start time of event. Students must present a physical ticket at the door.
- Eligibility: Tickets will only be issued to students who are currently in good behavioral standing. *
- Distribution: Students in good standing may pick up their tickets during designated times (to be announced per event).
No Ticket, No Entry: Students must have their ticket in hand to enter the building. Digital confirmations or verbal check-ins will not be accepted.
3. Maintaining a Positive Environment These changes are part of our commitment to maintaining a school culture rooted in the "Tapestry of Humanity" as shared—where respect, responsibility, and safety are the threads that hold us together. We want our events to be a space where our scholars' hard work can be celebrated without distraction.
4. Movement During Event: Once students enter the building they must go directly to the area of said event. They will not be allowed to roam through the building or go to their lockers. Once students exit- there is no re-entry.
We appreciate your partnership in upholding these standards and ensuring that Nichols Middle School remains a place of pride for our students and families.
I would like to extend a huge "thank you" to all of the parent volunteers who selflessly gave their time, talent and treasure to ensure that students had a good time at the dance. Whether you donated food, decorated, cooked for staff, monitored students or did work behind the scenes, your effort did not go unnoticed. I appreciate you immensly! We could not do this work without you.
I would also like to say thank you to the staff members who stayed to support and monitor students. You give of yourself day in and day out and we could not do this work without you, either!
February 4th is a half day. Please plan accordingly.
