On our social media pages throughout the past couple of weeks, Queen Creek Unified School District has shined a spotlight on our staff members who are veterans.
Two of the dozens of dedicated members of Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD) shared with us how they bring valuable military experience and lessons from their service to the classroom, helping inspire and connect with students.
Beverly Nichols, principal at Queen Creek Junior High, served four years in the United States Navy and another four years in the Navy Reserves. After participating in Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) in high school, Nichols decided to join the Navy to explore career opportunities and discover her path.
Serving in aviation administration, she developed skills that continue to benefit her as a school leader, including time management, attention to detail, and understanding the chain of command.
Nichols does not often share her military background with students, but they eventually discover it and enjoy making connections. She said students often share that their own parents are serving or have served in the military.
Jessica Stevens, an instructional aide at Queen Creek Elementary, dedicated 24 years to the United States Air Force. She worked in back-shop maintenance as part of an aircraft maintenance unit, helping maintain four different types of aircraft and supporting the pilots who flew them.
Her military experience taught her how to manage unexpected challenges and recognize that everyone approaches situations differently. She sees those lessons reflected in the classroom.
“Understanding that everybody’s a little bit different. We all need a little bit of difference in how we approach things, and there’s no right way to do anything particular,” Stevens shared.
When students learn about her Air Force service, they often ask what kinds of planes she flew. Although she never piloted aircraft, she enjoys explaining how she helped support the teams responsible for keeping them flying safely.
Through their service, Nichols and Stevens gained experiences and skills that continue to shape the way they support QCUSD students and staff. QCUSD is grateful for their service and proud to recognize the Veterans who continue making a difference in our schools and community.
Thank you to all of our veterans for their service to our country.