NIS November 2026 Newsletter
Principal Reflection: The Signature We Leave
Dear NIS Families,
November is always a fast-moving month, and in many ways, a somewhat disjointed one. Between changing routines, holidays, and the anticipation of the Thanksgiving break, the weeks seem to move quickly. Yet, even when the calendar feels a little less predictable, our collective responsibility remains the same: to provide students with structure, consistency, meaningful learning experiences, and the encouragement to keep moving forward.
Last week, our whole school had the opportunity to experience The Signature Project, brought to us through the generosity of the Friends of NPS. Created and presented by artist Patrick Dunning, the performance is a fascinating and somewhat indescribable blend of art, music, storytelling, science, technology, and personal history. At its center is an enormous work of art, built from the individual signatures of people from around the world. As Patrick reveals the many layers of the project, he reminds us that every person, every story, and every individual contribution becomes part of something much bigger than ourselves.
I found this message particularly meaningful for our school community. Each of us leaves a signature on the people and places around us. It may be through a kind word, a moment of encouragement, a lesson shared, a gesture of patience, or simply the consistency of showing up for someone each day. We may never fully know the impact of those seemingly small moments, but together, they help shape the bigger picture.
At NPS, we recognize what a privilege it is to have the opportunity to leave a small but meaningful signature on each student's life, and hopefully, on each family's experience as well. We also recognize that this is something we do together. The partnership between school and home, and the daily contributions of our students, families, faculty, and staff, all become part of the larger picture that makes this community special.
As Thanksgiving approaches, I am reminded that gratitude and kindness are not simply feelings reserved for a holiday. They are choices we make and actions we take every day. I am grateful for the trust you place in us, for your partnership, and for the many ways you contribute to our school community. As we head into the holiday season, I hope we each remain mindful of the signature we leave on others. May it be one marked by kindness, gratitude, encouragement, and care.
Thank you for being such an important part of the NPS picture. I wish all of our families a wonderful and meaningful Thanksgiving.
Warmly,
Becky Janda
Principal, NIS
Staff Parking Reminder/ Thank You
Message Regarding NES Staff Parking Lot:
- The parking lot off of First Way, located behind the NES school, is for staff use only.
- All parking spaces are assigned to staff or students at NHS.
- Parents and guardians should not use this lot for any reason, including drop-off, pick-up, or parking.
- This area is not a designated drive-through, and there are no available spaces for non-permitted vehicles.
- For the safety of all students and to maintain an orderly arrival and dismissal process, we kindly ask that you avoid entering this lot.
Thank you for your cooperation and for setting a positive example for our school community.
Reminder Message Regarding NIS Lots:
Backus Lane lot in spaces marked in yellow as "Staff" and numbered are for NIS Staff Only.
Surfside Road NIS parking lot is designated for NIS staff only
The circle is reserved exclusively for buses and families should not be using that entrance for drop-off or pick-up during school hours.
No Visitor or drop-off for NES or NIS should use the Surfside Road NIS Parking Lot to park.
We appreciate your cooperation in keeping these safety procedures and parking spots available for NIS staff so they can be present and ready to support our students each day.
Thank you for your continued understanding and partnership!
Birthday Books and Other Fun Ideas to Make a Student's Day Special
Celebrating a birthday is such an exciting day for our students and we want them to be and feel special on their celebration day. However, at NIS families and students are encouraged not to bring in sweet food items to celebrate their birthday with their class. There are some great alternatives to bringing in sweets that may contain allergens or abundant amounts of sugar. We would like to encourage you to donate a birthday book to your child's classroom library in honor of their birthday. Other fun ideas include bringing in a special pencil, a healthy treat like a fruit tray or a sticker for everyone in the class.
In addition families and students cannot bring in balloons or other large items to celebrate.
