When we ask our staff what era they would want to live in other than our own, we get some creative answers. However, the best of them comes from Nichole Sims, aka Ms. Nicky, New Millennium Secondary School (NMSS) Chief Operating Officer (COO): she wants to live back in high school because her mom was still paying the bills. Yes, please, that is the DREAM!
We wanted to know more about Ms. Nicky’s high school experience and she did not disappoint. From asking guys to drop and give her fifty push-ups to wearing a wide variety of high school job uniforms, Ms. Nicky shared her high school experience all the while gushing her love for the fabulous students at our tuition-free 9th-12th grade high school in Gardena!
What do you LOVE about NMSS- what sets it apart from other schools?
NMSS is small and hands on. All the kids belong to someone on campus. You hear them asking for help, sharing love, and looking for food. It’s a family environment.
What career did you want to pursue when you were in high school?
Something with business, but in the retail area.
Did you have any after-school and/or summer jobs while in high school?
During high school, I had a variety of after-school and summer jobs that each brought their own unique experiences.
I worked at a local market, where I had to wear a standard uniform that sometimes felt a bit silly, uncomfortable, in the store colors, and plus a hat with the store’s logo. And that’s the time when my boyfriend would visit me!
I also took care of my great grandmother, which was deeply rewarding and occasionally involved humorous moments, like trying to teach her to use new technology.
Additionally, I helped out in my family’s lingerie business, which came with its own set of amusing customer interactions and the occasional awkward situation due to the specialized attire we wore.
I was active in JROTC and one memorable incident happened when I was walking to the ROTC room out of uniform and overheard a few male students misbehaving and talking disrespectfully about others. I confronted one of the students and demanded that he drop and give me 50 push-ups. When he refused and said I was “nobody,” another ROTC member stepped in to support me, explaining that I outranked most of the students. He clarified that regardless of whether I was in uniform, my instructions were to be followed. Later, in uniform, I made the student do 100 push-ups as a form of discipline, reinforcing the respect and authority of the ROTC program.
What activities were you involved with in high-school? Are you involved in any NMSS activities?
My favorite classes were in auto shop and metalworking, where I enjoyed hands-on projects and occasionally dealt with minor mishaps, like tricky welding jobs or car repairs. Outside of academics, I was active in Jr. ROTC and participated in track and basketball. I took Driver’s Ed with friends and learned to drive stick-shift cars, which led to some funny and challenging driving lessons!
At NMSS I have been a part of Girl Talk mentoring program, Sports Club, Gaming Club, and Associated Student Body (ASB).
What music did you love listening to in high school? Now?
R&B, Hip Hop, Jazz, and old school R&B.
Did you attend any memorable concerts in high school? What were they?
I grew up with New Edition, but I love some Prince. It’s that artist that took you on a cruise with his music. He had the best music to workout too.
What was your go-to after school snack in high school?
I wasn’t able to eat McDonald’s Fries, because I ran track after school. Off season, I would get McDonald’s fries almost everyday. If it wasn’t fries, then I had pizza or salad.
What did you eat for lunch in high school? What about now?
I love some pizza or salads, because you are able to add different items to both.
What was your favorite class in high school?
Auto shop, I love cars!
How did you get around in high school?
School bus and public bus. My friends would leave campus to pick up lunch.
Thank you so much Ms. Nicky for such a great blast from the past, you’re the best! And thanks for supporting our students and bringing in the fun at our close-knit school.
What are you waiting for– it’s not too late! Join our dynamic school and community, serving 9th-12th grades and find belonging with us! Call us at 310-999-6162 and talk to one of our friendly staff, or fill out an application and join our Warrior team!
About NMSS
The New Millennium Secondary School (NMSS) is a charter high school in Gardena, CA committed to preparing students to become life-long learners and dynamic leaders in the competitive 21st century. NMSS was created to address the rising global competitive environment for talent. Our students enjoy a small school education with big school sports and accredited community college classes. Enroll your student today.
