Dr. Kabara’s vision for Nicolet is of a school system where each student has equitable access to the highest quality public education. He believes that collaborative relationships between students, parents, staff, and the community will contribute to excellence for all students. Dr. Kabara is proud of the success Nicolet has achieved in these areas and strives to continue to promote educational equity and foster a school environment of teamwork and acceptance every day.
Dr. Kabara was the Principal of Nicolet High School for six years before being named Superintendent. Prior to joining Nicolet, Dr. Kabara held administrative leadership roles in North Shore schools at the high school and middle school levels. He earned his doctoral degree in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service from Cardinal Stritch University and holds Master Degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin La Crosse as well as a Superintendency Certificate from Cardinal Stritch University.
Dr. Kabara would love to hear from you! He can be reached at (414) 351-7525 and greg.kabara@nicolet.us
Our students, staff and families committed to ensuring a safe return to in-person instruction for the 2022-2023 school year. Their commitment and dedication to this effort has allowed us to maintain in-person instruction five days per week for the entire school year. In turn, Nicolet has generated significant momentum and student success throughout this school year. We have successfully hosted in-person concerts, plays, musical performances, standardized testing and athletic events. As a result, we have recently recognized eight students who achieved National Merit Finalist status, one student who qualified for the International Science and Engineering Fair, two individual state champions, three athletic team state qualifications and mock trial team state qualification. These are among the many individual and group accomplishments that are keeping Nicolet moving and thriving. Our goal is to continue the momentum established this school year as we move into the future and our next phase of success.
Recently, School Board members completed their vision for the future educational and facility needs at Nicolet and a two year comprehensive facility study. The Board has developed a proposed renovation that addresses the building and facility needs at Nicolet Union High School aligned to their vision. Through staff and community input, we were able to incorporate proposed solutions, including renovations and new construction to our building and outdoor facilities. The proposed plan is scheduled for a community vote on Tuesday, April 5 during the general election. I look forward to the community’s continued participation in this process and the future success of Nicolet students, staff and community.
Time to Reset 2021-2022
September/October 2021
It is an honor and privilege to continue to serve as Nicolet Superintendent. I am proud of our students, staff and community who have risen to the challenge of the ongoing pandemic to start the 2021-2022 school year. Although we are not fully back to normal, the return to in-person learning has been a positive and well sought after benchmark.
This year is a good time to refocus and recommit to our vision of accelerating the achievement of every student, in every classroom, every day. With that in mind, we began this year with a renewed strategic plan focused on: Educational Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Personnel Development, Business Strategy and Financial Performance and Community Engagement. In the year ahead, we have a tremendous responsibility to our students to ensure that we maintain our high standards and provide a high level of support to ensure every student has the opportunity to accelerate their achievement.
The return to in-person learning and activities is an opportunity to reignite our commitment to education and to re-engage in our school community. I look forward to a great school year with high expectations for our students.
Finish The School Year Strong
June 2021
While our community eagerly anticipates summer, I look back deeply appreciative for the Nicolet community’s continuous display of resilience and support throughout this strange year. I am thankful to close another school year filled with the Nicolet students' many accomplishments, especially the Class of 2021. I look forward to the opportunities we have to celebrate and reflect on our students' growth and achievements.
As we close another school chapter in the coming week, I’d like to share some helpful tips and reminders for Nicolet students to finish the year strong.
As Exam Week is just around the corner, I’d like to encourage each Nicolet student to check-in with yourself. Especially important during busy weeks, it’s important to practice self-care to support your health and well-being. This could look like a quick bike ride around the neighborhood, journaling, spending time with friends or reading a few pages of your favorite book. Taking time to pause and recharge can give your mind and body rest, ultimately boosting energy levels, supporting your focus and long-term goals.
Practice effective goal-setting, both in and out of school, will help you grow personally and academically. One method of goal-setting I find helpful is through the S.M.A.R.T. goal template, which stands for goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. Review goals you’ve set for the 2020-2021 school year, and begin to think through new goals for the following year. Creating S.M.A.R.T. goals may help alleviate stress and increase your motivation when you approach new challenges.
Alongside end-of-year celebrations, spring always welcomes new opportunities to support and connect with our community. Look for opportunities to give back through fundraisers, drives, organized volunteer efforts, and more. It’s never too late to be a supportive member of the community.
Be sure to share your gratitude for those around you that have positively impacted your experience at Nicolet. In our very digital age, a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for a friend, neighbor or Nicolet staff member is through a handwritten thank you note. Consider reflecting on your favorite moments in the classroom, on the stage, out on the field, and everywhere in between for inspiration.
Thank you for your continued hard work, Nicolet. Let’s finish strong!
Thank You, Nicolet Community
April 2021
Nicolet students and families:
On April 6, 2021, the residents of Bayside, Fox Point, Glendale and River Hills voted to support Nicolet’s 2021 Operational Referendum, which ensures that the District can continue to maintain our class sizes, programs and services for our students.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Nicolet community for supporting the District in its mission to accelerate achievement for every student, every classroom, every day. The support of the operational referendum, allocating $3.9 million dollars per year for the next six years, ensures Nicolet can continue to offer the same high level of programming and educational experiences our community expects. Without the support of this replacement referendum, Nicolet would have faced an average budget shortfall of 17.9% of the annual budget over the next six years. Because of your support, Nicolet is able to maintain educational programs, retain critical teaching staff, and maintain small class sizes.
This referendum is a key investment in our future students and their opportunities at Nicolet, and we are extremely grateful for the support provided by our communities as we work together to successfully navigate life during the pandemic.
I look forward to continuing our work to advance our commitment to excellence and equity.
How The 2021 Operational Referendum Will Impact Nicolet Students
March 2021
Nicolet is known for its diverse and challenging academic courses, commitment to equity and student support, exceptional extracurriculars, highly qualified staff and, of course, the many achievements of its students and staff.
We are proud to offer unique programs and services that make Nicolet a top school. These programs and achievements are due, in part, to the support from operational referenda passed by the Nicolet community in 2011 and 2016.
As you may know, the 2016 referendum is scheduled to expire at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. Without a replacement referendum, Nicolet is facing an average budget shortfall of 17.9% of the annual budget over the next six years.
In the general election on Tuesday, April 6, the Nicolet community will have the opportunity to vote to replace the 2016 referendum with a six-year, $3.9 million annual operational referendum starting in the 2022-2023 school year.
I know that it is difficult to ask the community to continue its financial commitment to Nicolet during the COVID-19 pandemic, but this referendum is an investment in future students and their opportunities at Nicolet. Without this ongoing financial support it will be difficult to maintain the programs and services that make Nicolet a premier Wisconsin high school.
If the referendum passes, Nicolet students will continue to experience the unique programs, small class sizes and high-qualified teachers in a variety of challenging and diverse subjects.
Nicolet is extremely grateful for the support provided by our communities as we work together to successfully navigate a challenging school year.
I encourage you to learn more about the upcoming operational referendum by visiting the operational referendum page on the Nicolet website or by submitting a question through our FAQ submission form. To watch a recording of the Virtual Referendum Information Session on February 24, please click here.
Don’t forget to visit myvote.wi.gov to learn more about how to register to vote, how to find your polling place, and more.
Practicing Self-Care this Winter Break
December 2020
As we enter Winter Break amidst the pandemic, our long-awaited recess comes at a time when many of us need it most. I cannot stress enough the importance of using this break to rest, recharge, and prioritize your mental and physical health and safety.
Whether it means simply scheduling more sleep, getting exercise, or being sure that you are drinking enough water, taking care of your body is crucial to staying physically healthy. Of course, please continue to practice social distancing, wash your hands frequently and wear masks in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.
Taking care of your mental health may look a little different this holiday season. While many connections to family and friends may be virtual this year, winter break is an excellent opportunity to unplug. Limiting screen time may help reduce stress and fatigue, while giving your mind an opportunity to recharge.
Instead of browsing social media, pick up a book, play a game or strike up a good conversation. Use this as an opportunity to get creative with crafts, hobbies and some DIY projects!
Connecting safely with those you love, sharing messages of gratitude, and reaching out if you need support are just a few of the many ways you can practice self-care this holiday season.
During this Winter Break, please take a moment to acknowledge your accomplishments, take care of yourself, and remember that even though we are apart, we can also share a sense of togetherness. We are entering 2021 with immense hope and gratitude, and we are certain that each and every one of you will help us reach great heights. From all of us at Nicolet, we hope you have a safe, restful Winter Break.
Looking Forward: Planning for Nicolet's Future
November 2020
While at times it may feel like the pandemic has caused our “world to stop,” please know that despite uncertainty, Nicolet remains committed to the ever crucial work of growing, achieving and planning for the future. With your help, District leadership is working diligently to make great strides in 2021 and beyond.
The Administration is currently utilizing the community feedback and collaboration from the recent Strategic Planning and Visioning work sessions to influence the strategic and tactical planning for the coming years. The Nicolet community has the opportunity to witness their input and feedback in action at the Nicolet School Board meeting on January 25 as District leadership presents the new strategic plan for continuous improvement.
Right now, the most important thing families can do for the future of Nicolet is to participate in the community survey that was recently sent to district residents in Bayside, Glendale, Fox Point and River Hills.
Please submit your surveys online or by paper copy by November 24, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. Your feedback will help guide Nicolet’s response to the long-term financial hurdles ahead that are important to the future of the Nicolet community.
I am consistently moved by the community’s engagement as we work together to further Nicolet’s mission and values as we navigate life during the pandemic. In the face of uncertainty, your empathy, ideas and positivity show me that together, we can make 2021 a year of growth, hope and excitement for the future.
Nicolet is eager to hear from you!
5 Year Vision Plan
October 2020
In this video update, Dr. Kabara shares the importance of continuous improvement planning and invites the Nicolet community to participate in the upcoming strategic planning and visioning work session on Monday, October 19 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (email amy.lee@nicolet.us to rsvp) Click here to read Dr. Kabara's letter to the Nicolet community.
Statement From Superintendent Dr. Kabara
June 2020
Reflecting on past months, I am continually in awe of the Nicolet community’s support and encouragement of one another. Our students, staff and families found unique ways to unite, encourage and inspire through the many challenges brought on by the global coronavirus pandemic. While coronavirus continues to affect our typical way of life, one issue has been affecting our culture for much longer than COVID-19.
Desiring a better world for people of color is not a political issue, just as empathy is not unique to a political party, religion or ideology. It is a human imperative. As a school, and leaders in our own circles of influence, we must denounce racism in all its direct and indirect forms and be relentless in our pursuit of equality to create a better future for our students.
Earlier this month, I shared school resources available in our remote school environment for those struggling with the murder of George Floyd and other wrongful deaths of black and brown people in our nation. As our nation, state and local communities continue working towards positive change, please remember that our strength as a community rests in our ability to have compassion for and support each other. We urge the community to actively listen and reflect, taking steps to understand our own privilege and biases while educating ourselves on racial injustices in our own community.
One of Nicolet’s greatest attributes is its richly diverse student body. It’s our desire to honor each culture’s uniqueness and celebrate the beauty that is created when we are all brought together. Finding immense value in our diversity is an important part of our mission and the goals of our school. I know that Nicolet is not immune to racism, but it will not be tolerated in any form. As a District, we commit to continuing to:
Provide opportunities for students and families to learn from informed perspectives and engage in meaningful conversations about race and equality;
Review and address all policies and practices to improve equity and access in our school system;
Provide dynamic and flexible support systems for all aspects of our students' wellbeing; and
Engage students in the study of literature, history, cultures and perspectives of marginalized communities.
I speak for the entire administration at Nicolet when I say we value the opinion and perspective of each member of our community. Please do not hesitate to reach out to share your thoughts, concerns and ideas for our school. If you seek additional support, The Nicolet Student Services Staff are available as a resource for students and families throughout the summer.
Continue to encourage, support and stand by your fellow Knights. We will succeed as a school, community and world when we intentionally reject racism and inequality.
Happy Public Schools Week!
February 2020
We are only two months into 2020, but already Nicolet has certainly set a strong pace to end the school year with great memories, excitement, and growth. I love witnessing the Nicolet community’s enthusiastic spirit through student activities, athletic victories, community projects, academic progress, and so much more.
February 24 marks the beginning of National Public Schools Week, a chance to celebrate the great things happening in our nation’s 13,000 plus public schools.
Nicolet is proud to serve the bright, young minds of Glendale, Fox Point, Bayside, and River Hills. This week is an excellent opportunity to show appreciation to those that inspire, fuel, and support our public school district.
I know I’m proud to be the Superintendent of our diverse, hardworking and supportive school community. I’m grateful for Nicolet’s network of educators, faculty and community members that instill countless life lessons and skills and provide thoughtful support for Nicolet students.
This week I invite the Nicolet community to share why you are Nicolet Proud and Public School Proud by:
Sharing a story, friendship, or memory of why you’re #PublicSchoolProud and #NicoletProud on social media. Be sure to tag Nicolet!
Sharing a simple “thank you” to a Nicolet educator, faculty, student, or community member that is making a difference every day in our school system.
Supporting your fellow Knights by attending performances or sporting events, supporting student organizations, joining a committee, or giving back to the community through fundraisers and volunteer opportunities.
I look forward to hearing stories from our community sharing why they’re #PublicSchoolProud and #NicoletProud. As always, if you would like to reach me directly with your thoughts or concerns, please email me at greg.kabara@nicolet.us
Importance of Taking Breaks
January 2020
As we start the second week of the year at Nicolet and get back into the exciting, fast-paced school year routine, I find myself reflecting on the holiday season with family and friends, a time to be thankful, celebrate and recharge.
Whether it’s winter break, a day off at the end of the quarter, or even a small window between lunch and the next class, these breaks provide a much-needed moment to pause and refresh.
We may take these small windows of time for granted throughout the day, but the successful application of these “breaks” is essential to your well-being as learning, growing and developing high school students. These small breaks are just as important as longer winter or summer vacations.
Research shows us that during breaks, small or large, our brains are not actually resting, but working to process, remember, reflect and plan. Taking a break allows us to stay alert, engaged and excited so that we are recharged from the busy schedules in the classroom and extracurricular activities.
Every break counts. Whether it’s opting for the longer route to your locker, giving the activity in wellness class your all, or walking with friends during the lunch hour, exercise is a great option when you need a break and in addition to the obvious fitness benefits, exercise also boosts your brain health!
My favorite way to take a break is to run. I try to start each day with a run to clear my head. Running helps me to come into each school day energized, focused and ready to take on the day. I encourage you to try a few different things to see what works for you when you need a mental break: meditative breathing, reading a book, drawing or another form of art, listening to music, crossword puzzles, exercise – the possibilities are endless.
This year, remember to take time for yourself. Let’s finish the school year off strong and stay recharged throughout 2020.
Achieving Positive Student-Teacher Relationships
October 2019
So far it has been a great start to the 2019-2020 school year! Our committed teachers work every day to foster a community where students can succeed and that often begins with developing strong student-teacher relationships. Below are four ways Nicolet teachers use to successfully cultivate impactful relationships with their students.
1. Getting to know students
Like fingerprints, no two students are alike. Successful teachers know this and work hard to learn their students as individuals who together make up the class dynamic. Getting to know students doesn’t stop after the first week of school either. Teachers meet with students on a daily basis during resource period to connect with students and advance their learning and create an environment where all students feel supported.
A comprehensive transition program allows teachers to foster core character traits and ensure that all incoming students have the academic, social, and emotional support and skills necessary to be successful at Nicolet.
2. Recognizing students’ efforts
If a student receives a poor grade on a math test then he or she is quick to assume that Math is not a part of his/her skillset. As educators, our job is to support students and remind them that a poor grade is not a fail, but rather a not yet mastered. Every student has the ability to achieve and as teachers we have the power to remind them of that.
3. Encourage positive behavior
Of course, disruptive behavior needs to be communicated, but what about positive behavior? Extraordinary teachers know that in order to foster student-teacher relationships good behavior needs to be complimented just as much, if not more, than negative.
Simple statements such as “It’s great to see everyone here on time today” or “I’m happy to be your teacher” have the power to positively impact students and let them know that their presence in the classroom is appreciated.
4. Seeking out memorable classroom lessons and activities
Many parents have had a teacher or college professor where often class consisted of writing down notes from a PowerPoint presentation with little engagement. When we look back, not only do we remember such classes as not being very entertaining, but it can also be challenging to recall content from the course.
Great teachers know how to make learning fun! Nicolet teachers Megan Lund and Andi Winkle designed an Outdoor Pursuits and Environmental Science (OPES) course for our students. This course blends team building activities, wellness outcomes and science standards in a fun and engaging course. The course maintains rigorous academic standards and allows students to build friendships and meaningful relationships through fun activities such as kayaking and rock climbing.
As always, I would love to talk to any member of the Nicolet community should if there are questions, thoughts, or concerns this year. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me at greg.kabara@nicolet.us.
Welcome Back, Students!
September 2019
The 2019-2020 school year is officially underway! Although the weather the first day was a bit gloomy, the energy inside our doors felt completely the opposite. It has been a great week and a half with students and staff. Their overwhelmingly positive attitudes created a welcoming environment and reinforced what a privilege it is to continue my service to the Nicolet Union High School District and our communities as superintendent.
The Nicolet Union High School learning community is built on a tradition of excellence both in and out of the classroom. Ensuring that we accelerate the achievement of every student in every classroom, every day remains our primary mission. To expand on our successes and continue to grow as a learning community during this school year, we have implemented a number of enhancements and additions to our transition program and our academic supports.
This year, all students will benefit from our student support system Knights Helping Knights, a program that offers every student access to multiple levels of on-demand academic, social-emotional, and organizational support. For our freshman and new students, the transition team has organized and planned an ongoing series of supports, including a restructured freshman advisory group, freshman guided study hall, and a new freshman support team.
As we enter a new school year with new leadership, I look forward to building on and expanding our relationships and partnerships with the communities that support Nicolet High School. Our community leaders have been welcoming and eager to engage in partnerships with Nicolet. Building these partnerships with our communities will encourage civic engagement as well as support and strengthen the learning opportunities for our students.
I look forward to an exceptional 2019-2020 school year!
As always, I would love to talk to you should you have any questions, thoughts, or concerns this year. I can be reached at greg.kabara@nicolet.us
