The Recorder on August 21, 2025
Dr. James “Nick” Nycum
MONTEREY — Preceding a moment of silence last Thursday, Aug. 14, Highland County School Board member Sherry Sullenberger noted the recent loss of Scott “Doc” Wells, long-term substitute and diligent supporter of the students, particularly the FFA. “Our hearts are heavy,” she said, and asked attendees to remember him during the pause.
Newly hired superintendent Dr. James “Nick” Nycum was welcomed by the board and said he’s “excited and grateful to serve.”
Nycum brings 20 years of experience in education to the table and noted he has a well-rounded perspective on school operations. He intends to honor the traditions of the division, he said, while leading the school forward with a focus on collaboration and transparency.
He expects to encourage the three E’s, he said — enrolled, employed, and enlisted — which met with approval from staff on hand. “I’m absolutely thrilled to begin this journey,” he added.
The board also welcomed Ali Williams, the new third grade teacher. Williams, who comes to the third grade after a 30-year military career, expressed enthusiasm for the year to begin. “I’m excited about being part of this team,” she said, mentioning she and her husband are “grateful to be in a place that feels like paradise.” She continued, “I have 20 more years of work to do. I want to invest in this community.”
Parent Bryan Obaugh addressed the board representing the newly revived Highland PTO, which he said will focus on enhancing support for the school and improving academic rigor.
The PTO has raised $9,000 so far to match the sign-on bonus offered by the school board. “Should someone meet your requirements, there’s a match for your incentive bonus,” he told the board.
Board member Kenny Hodges remarked that the school’s hiring challenges are a national, not just local, problem. “We’ve talked so much about hiring qualified, licensed teachers,” he said.
He reported Richmond schools have instituted a policy like Highland’s — hiring those with bachelor’s degrees on provisional licenses and paying for the schooling needed for licensure. He pointed to the history of this program with Highland’s school system.
He and Sullenberger both thanked Obaugh and the PTO for their efforts to support new hires. “We appreciate the funding you’re getting to help sign up licensed teachers,” Hodges said.