Dear Nichols Families-
As we gather today to celebrate our 8th-grade graduates, I am reminded that every ending is also the beginning of something new. I commend our 8th graders for the leadership that they have shown this year by being positive role models to our 6th and 7th graders. I celebrate, you, 8th grade caregivers- YOU MADE IT through possibly the most difficult child rearing years! This moment marks both a proud conclusion and an exciting next chapter—not just for our graduating students, but for all of us as a school community.
Some families will move on to high school, others will begin a new middle school chapter at a different school, and many will return to Nichols ready to embrace the next challenge together. Through it all, we have shared an experience that has bonded us as Lions!
Middle school is a time of remarkable growth. This year, we witnessed our scholars push through various learning activities such as research papers, mummy projects, climate change proposals, arts projects, ukulele notes, and many more fun and engaging lessons. They worked towards the discovery of themselves through their identity work on the half days and took steps, sometimes bold, sometimes quiet, toward becoming the awesome scholars that they have always been meant to be. Their resilience, creativity, and growth are worth celebrating, and we thank you, caregivers, for your constant partnership and advocacy for your children along the way. We know that this world is not a kind place, yet somehow our scholars persevere. I firmly believe in the adage “and a child shall lead them,” and the optimism, kindness, and the compassion that they show towards each other is something that we should all aspire to.
As we look toward summer, I hope that it brings a renewal of the mind, body, and soul with joy! May it be a time to recharge, reflect, and celebrate all the hard work, learning, and connection that defined this school year.
We also want to take a moment to honor members of our Nichols community who are moving on to new chapters of their own. We joyfully and gratefully celebrate our retirees: Ms. Foust, Ms. Purnell, Ms. Evans, Ms. Jones, and Ms. Westphal. Their dedication, wisdom, and love for students have left an indelible mark on our school. They will forever be Lions to the end!
Additionally, we bid a heartfelt farewell to staff members who will be moving on to new adventures next year: Mr. Apter, Ms. Galliani, Ms. Sopcic, Ms. Papageorgiou, and Ms. Ernvall. We thank them for their contributions and wish them all the best on their next adventures.
As we close this year, our hearts are full with Lion pride, gratitude, and anticipation for the 2025-2026 school year. We are already looking forward to the fall, ready to build upon the strong foundation we’ve created together.
Thank you for being a vital part of our community. We wish you a safe, joyful, and relaxing summer!
Warm Regards,
Ms. Fishman
Please see this important notice that went out to families last evening regarding potential early release for SY 26-27. The district is looking for your input; here is an important survey.
Summer Listening Tours will return in July. These can be virtual or in person. You may sign up here. If none of these times work for your schedule, please email me directly and we can work out a time that is conducive to our schedules.
Summer Reading! The District 65 Middle School Librarians have put together a summer reading list with something for all readers. The Summer Reading list can be found here as well as on the D65 Summer Reading Website. All books are available at the Evanston Public Library. The Teen Loft at the Evanston Public Library has great FREE activities for all your students. Please see the attached flyers for details on the Film-It Challenge and June and July activities. I hope everyone has a great summer!
Ms. Philippe
To help families learn more about the change in assessments, there have been updates made to the D65 Assessments Page and the district is launching the “D65 Assessment Spotlight” - a series of short videos that explain what’s changing, why, and what to expect.
Visit https://www.district65.net/learning/assessments to view videos and access FAQs, timelines, and parent resources.
Be in touch!
Email: fishmann@district65.net
Website: https://nichols.district65.net/
Location: 800 Greenleaf, Evanston
Phone: 847-859-8650