The Principal's Perspective
March 31- April 4 Welcome Back!
Rounding the Corner!
Welcome back caregivers! I hope that you had a wonderful Spring Break. In hearing from your scholars, some families have taken trips, some have spent time at home making new recipes, resting, playing with pets, and doing fun activities around town. As the days grow longer and the warmth of spring settles in, we find ourselves rounding the corner of the school year. The shift from winter to spring brings with it a sense of renewal and growth. It’s a perfect opportunity for middle school students to reflect, reset, and embrace the fresh possibilities that the season offers.
For our students, this time of year can be both invigorating and challenging. They’ve worked hard, tackled new concepts, learned about "learning habits," and navigated the social and academic experiences that come with middle school. While the final stretch of the school year is in sight, it’s important to encourage our students to stay engaged, curious, and motivated. Spring’s energy can serve as a powerful reminder that growth often comes from perseverance.
This is also an ideal time for students to explore new interests and hobbies. Encourage your child to try something different, whether it’s joining a club (like Metrosquash), join tutoring like Morning Mentors, participating in a spring sport, or picking up a creative project. Middle school is a formative time for self-discovery, and embracing new challenges can build resilience and confidence- which so needed at a time like this.
At the same time, it’s never too early to start thinking about summer. Consider how your student can keep their mind active through enriching activities. From local camps and workshops to independent reading and creative projects, there are countless ways to make summer both fun and educational. Setting goals for the summer can help students maintain momentum and continue developing their skills.
But this spirit of renewal isn’t just for our students. As parents, you have a powerful opportunity to model lifelong learning and curiosity. Maybe it’s taking a class, exploring a new hobby, or diving into a book on a topic you’ve always been curious about. If you're like me, there is never enough time. One of my favorite things to do is listen to Audible on the way to work. I am currently enjoying Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerKeurt as a personal read, and Street Data by Shane Safir as a Professional Read. Sharing your own experiences of growth and discovery can inspire your child to do the same.
Spring is a season of possibility. Let’s embrace it with a mindset of growth and enthusiasm. Together, we can support our middle schoolers in finishing the year strong while nurturing a spirit of curiosity that lasts far beyond the classroom.
Here’s to a vibrant and fulfilling spring for all of us!
Fine Arts Night is coming April 10th! The Fine Arts team is putting together a Fine Arts Night on Thursday, April 10th (6:00-7:30 PM), to celebrate the vibrant culture of the arts that our students cultivate in the Nichols community. This event will feature an art gallery walk in the cafeteria as well as art activity tables, followed by performances by the Nichols Choir, Jazz Band, and Chamber Orchestra.
Morning Mentors!
We are looking for students who are interested in tutoring to join Morning Mentors! Here is more information and the permission slip. Please contact Ms. Verzo if you have questions at verzom@district65.net .
Day of No Silence!
We will be acknowledging a Day of No Silence on Friday, April 4th. In response to ongoing attempts to marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender and nonbinary people, remaining silent is no longer an option. It’s time to Rise Up and Take Action. GLSEN’s Day of (No) Silence is a nationally recognized, student-led demonstration where LGBTQ+ students and allies across the country — and around the world — stand against the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in schools.
