Get to Know Nichols Faculty: Christine Roach

Christine started her Nichols career in 1990 as a 7th Grade US History teacher on the Nottingham campus.  She also had the privilege of running the school’s nursery at the time.  From hiring the staff to doing the payroll, she and veteran colleague, Deb Howe, managed the daily operations of the nursery.  Not only was she able to pursue a career in teaching, but she knew her own children were in good hands, and only a stone’s throw from work.  Roach chuckled as she reflected on her years at Nichols, “It feels funny to be at the front of the processional line of teachers coming in at graduation.”  

In 2002, Roach took leave from Nichols to have her fourth child and returned to school in 2008, this time to teach 7th Grade US History and 6th Grade Geography.  It wasn’t until 2017 with the retirement of Mary Sykes did Christine start teaching fifth grade.  Fawning on her love of teaching fifth graders, ‘For me, it’s not just teaching, there is more mothering and parenting going on.  It’s a combination of ‘in loco-parentis’ and being a teacher.  They do feel like our own kids.  We are proud when they do great things and frustrated when we know-they know better.”

Christine has had the privilege of collaborating with faculty member Josh Ring in team teaching the 5th grade.  Christine teaches Humanities while Josh incorporates STEM into the curriculum.  By working together, they are able to incorporate many different disciplines into projects, encouraging communication and team building skills as well as how to have a conversation and ask the right questions.  All skills necessary to move through a student’s academic journey.

Fifth Grade at Nichols is like a home away from home.  Students start the year fresh, expectations are clear and responsibilities are well-mapped out.  As the year progresses, students are given the reins and, with guidance and support, are steered towards preparing the students for life after fifth grade–where independence and decision-making skills become important.  “By the end of the year, it’s amazing to see how far the kids have come.  They truly are ready for what’s next, and that’s a great feeling”

Interested in learning more about Nichols School. We are still accepting applications for the 2024-25 school year in select grades. Please visit our website to apply and learn more!  https://www.nicholsschool.org/admissions/applying-to-nichols-school