There are many impressive things going on at Nicolas under the leadership of principal Steve Keller . New this year are single-sex algebra classes conducted by master teacher Marion Van Voorhis . Teachers from different departments are also meeting regularly to discuss curriculum and ways to integrate subject areas to support each other's teaching. At Parks the staff strives to communicate clear expectations of students and adhere to rigorous course content. They are clearly unified behind mutually-held goals, and are vocal in their support of principal Larry Beaver.
Parks has a sterling afterschool sports program available to students.
Media assistant Mickey Watts and science, computer science and algebra teacher Tracy Hernandez have written a technology grant which has greatly improved the Media Center and Computer Lab. The Media Center is now open at least one day after school for students to do research and classwork. One of Parks' many outstanding teachers, Carolyn Ratzlaff, was selected by the California Association of Middle School Science Teachers for recognition as the Outstanding Junior High or Middle School Science Teacher. Ladera Vista principal Andre Sauvageau reports that all English teachers are working with all students on writing essays, stressing grammar and content. The final products will compete for the school's annual Martin Luther King speeches in January.