Mrs. Nichols

Mrs. Nichols teaches elementary music at Ridgeview to kindergarten through fifth grade students. She uses the Kodály philosophy of teaching music theory through folk songs and games, while also integrating in-depth studies of compositions by Baroque, Classical, and Romantic composers.

In addition to her regular classes, Mrs. Nichols directs Grace Notes, the extracurricular elementary choir. She accompanies as needed for the upper school choirs and is one of the instructors for the Wilderness First Aid course.

Mrs. Nichols began teaching at Ridgeview in 2003 when the elementary music teacher left unexpectedly in the middle of the year. What began as a temporary substitute position has turned into a fulfilling career that has spanned over two decades and two generations of students. 

She received her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado, with a minor in Spanish. She later enrolled in graduate classes, earning her Master of Music with Kodály emphasis from Colorado State University.

Mrs. Nichols is a proud Colorado native and can often be found in nature or with animals. She particularly enjoys doing pack burro racing with her donkey, Casspian.

Q & A with Mrs. Nichols

Where were you born and where have you lived?

I am a proud Colorado native. I grew up in Littleton and moved to northern Colorado in 2001.

Where did you attend university or college?

I attended one year at Wheaton College, where I studied vocal performance. I completed my undergraduate at the University of Northern Colorado and received my B.A. in psychology with a minor in Spanish. I earned my Master of Music degree with Kodaly emphasis from Colorado State University.

What kind of reading do you most enjoy doing?

I have been revisiting some of the fiction classics that I read when I was younger, as well as experiencing some of the literature books we teach at Ridgeview that I never had a chance to read. I am always open to suggestions about new books and authors!

What are the small essentials that make life more comfortable?

Animals, good music, silence, and new wiper blades.

What are your favorite snacks?

Sweet chai latte with almond milk, milk chocolate, caramel, and gluten-free snacks.

What do you do to unwind?

Run with my dogs or my donkey, ride my horse, hike, backpack, climb... If it's outside or involves (living) animals, I probably love it. A good book is wonderful for colder days.

How could a parent volunteer help you most?

Occasional cleaning or dusting of instruments and supplies would be very helpful!