In the last few weeks we have had several events making us grateful for the strength and integrity of our community. First, on the retirement of our incredible principal, we have all taken time to be grateful for her 35 years of devoted service, high standards and motivational leadership. We want to protect and preserve her leadership and legacy at NFE in a variety of ways. A big thanks to Dana Hennessey for agreeing to spearhead the finalizing of these remembrances for the school, for Mrs. Merriam, and for the community. We look forward to having everyone join us at the Spring Family Picnic for a school-wide retirement party, with music and a chance to celebrate Mrs. Merriam in true Nuckols Farm fashion. 

Several members of the Nuckols Farm community were asked to participate in a forum to discuss qualities we value as a community and desirable attributes for our next principal. Mrs. Mary Cox, Director of Elementary Education, reassured the diverse group of parents that the interview process for a new principal is thorough, and they will not stop until they find the best fit for our community. While parents and school staff are not involved in the direct interview of candidates, it is a tireless process of gathering ideas and suggestions from all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the next adventure in learning for our children. Mrs. Cox offered her email in case there were any sensitive concerns or thoughts that we felt necessary to share, to emphasize the importance of everyone’s voice being heard in this process.

In a related topic, school safety continues to be the number one priority for our staff and families. In light of recent events, this has only been fortified. I reached out to Mrs. Merriam to offer our PTA’s unwavering support to ensure our school safety. I suggested that we would be willing to purchase any necessary items to help secure the school grounds in a more effective way, if needed. She was very open to the thoughts and suggestions and offered to clear ideas with the person in charge of safety for the county to ensure continuity with police; however, it was a fantastic reminder that rarely does any school publicize its specific safety protocol to offer an extra layer of protection for our students. As we all already know, Nuckols Farm has a protocol and plan for every eventuality that is regularly practiced and tweaked with input from experts and local law enforcement.

From attending the Henrico County Reflections Ceremony to see some incredible foxes honored, to witnessing the magic of science in action at our annual Science Fair, we have much to celebrate in the NFE school community, none of which happens without the devoted support and sacrifice of families and volunteers alike. So, as we all look forward to a bright and fantastic spring, we are grateful for the strength of our staff and teachers who care for our children every single day, who will shepherd us all through this year of transition, and who have always been a rock in the winds of change. We are excited to celebrate the legacy of a timeless leader in Mrs. Merriam and know that it is never good-bye, but just see you later.

Emily McKinney

PTA President