New Millennium Secondary School (NMSS) and Our MVP
New Millennium Secondary School (NMSS), a charter high school located in Gardena, California, is committed to empowering students with the skills, mindsets, and competencies essential for success in the rapidly evolving 21st century. Founded in response to the global demand for innovative, highly skilled thinkers—and against the backdrop of the United States’ ranking of 15th in overall K–12 achievement—NMSS embraces its responsibility to prepare students to excel in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Our mission is clear: to ensure every learner is fully equipped to navigate, contribute to, and lead in a dynamic global landscape.
At NMSS, 21st-century learning is central to our educational model. We seamlessly integrate advanced technology into daily instruction and assessment, ensuring that students develop digital literacy, creative problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and critical thinking. Our educators are selected for their expertise, passion, and commitment to crafting personalized, student-centered learning experiences that cultivate curiosity, adaptability, and authentic readiness for real-world challenges. Every student receives a dedicated laptop and continuous access to high-quality online learning resources, supporting curiosity, exploration, and growth anytime and anywhere.
Our school community is intentionally designed to foster focus, engagement, and purpose—creating a learning environment where students can thrive without the constant distractions of non-essential technology. We believe academic excellence, meaningful relationships, and personal growth are best nurtured when learners are fully present. While we provide 1:1 technology for use at school and home, along with portable Wi-Fi hotspots when needed, we remain deeply committed to ensuring that these tools enhance learning rather than hinder it. By thoughtfully limiting unnecessary digital interruptions, we create the space students need to think deeply, collaborate effectively, and cultivate strong interpersonal connections.
Our goal is to help students develop healthy digital habits, strengthen their attention, and rediscover the joy of learning in a school environment intentionally crafted for clarity, curiosity, and mindful engagement.
Our Mission
At New Millennium Secondary School, our mission is to empower every student with the knowledge, skills, and character necessary to achieve academic excellence, explore meaningful career pathways, and thrive in college and beyond. As a College & Career Ready Focus School, we are reimagining education to prepare future-ready leaders who will positively impact their communities and the world.
Our Vision
Our vision is to cultivate a learning community rooted in curiosity, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the humanities—one that empowers students to understand the human story, think critically, and build meaningful connections with the world around them. At the same time, we champion a future-ready approach, encouraging all students to explore dynamic Career and Technical Education (CTE) and college pathway opportunities.
Through innovative instructional practices, real-world learning experiences, and a steadfast commitment to 21st-century skills, we inspire students to become thoughtful scholars, imaginative creators, and courageous problem-solvers. Our aim is to nurture impactful doers and compassionate leaders who are prepared not only to succeed, but to shape the future with vision and purpose.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to prepare every student for a successful future by blending rigorous academics with innovative CTE pathways and comprehensive college preparation. We are committed to equipping students with the core competencies of the 21st century—critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving—empowering them to thrive as lifelong learners, inventive thinkers, and impactful contributors in an ever-changing world.
Our Name
Our name reflects our belief that students must be prepared to compete and lead as scholars in the new millennium. Success in the 21st century demands a rigorous and relevant college-preparatory education—one that invests in exceptional human capital, leverages cutting-edge technology, and evolves to meet the challenges of today’s society. At NMSS, we proudly embrace this responsibility as we prepare students to meet and shape the future.
School Leadership
Dr. Darrick Rice, Principal/CEO
Dr. Darrick Rice is a dedicated educator with 27 years of experience across K–12 and higher education. He began his career teaching Social Science, Health, and Physical Education, and has since served in a wide range of roles, including coach, Athletic Director, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, Principal, Coordinator, and Director. His leadership experience spans both district and county levels, reflecting a broad understanding of educational systems and instructional needs.
In addition to his administrative work, Dr. Rice is an Adjunct Professor, teaching single-subject credentialing courses and 21st-Century Learning to future teachers and administrators. He also runs a small educational consulting business, supporting schools and educators in improving instructional practices and organizational culture.
Dr. Rice earned a football scholarship to Western Kentucky University and later completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Chico State University. He holds a Doctorate in Education from Brandman University, where his research focused on Servant Leadership. He remains committed to developing compassionate, student-centered learning environments and empowering educators to lead with purpose and integrity.