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Mrs. Nichols Employee of the Year 25-26

Mrs. Nichols Employee of the Year 25-26
Kelsey Ohlhauser
Banner with "Hornet News" and "Highland Park Elementary" beside the school logo
Kristin Nichols shaking hands with GPS Board Members.


We are beyond proud to announce that our very own Kristin Nichols, Accelerated Kindergarten Teacher, has been named Employee of the Year! She was celebrated on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 along with the other Gilbert Public Schools Employee of the Year Nominees. Mrs. Nichols inspires excellence in both students and colleagues through her thoughtful, intentional teaching and collaborative leadership. She builds strong, trusting relationships with students and families by knowing each child deeply and communicating with clarity, care, and consistency. Kristin proactively supports all learners—especially students with high needs—by creating individualized systems and interventions without waiting for formal identification. She is a generous teammate who shares her time, expertise, and leadership to strengthen instruction and foster community connections. Through her high expectations, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication, Kristin consistently creates an environment where students and educators thrive. Kristin Nichols embodies the heart, excellence, and professionalism of Highland Park Elementary, and she is a truly deserving candidate for Employee of the Year.