As an alumni of North Central High School, I truly value and embrace the chance to bring something back to the community that gave me so much. After graduating from NCHS in 2006, I earned an Associates Degree in Public Service (Paralegal Studies) and worked in a law office for several years before deciding to make a career change. I then attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia and earned a Bachelor's Degree in General English and completed the PACE program. I have been teaching English classes along with coaching volleyball at North Central since August 2013. I have since gone on to earn a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Western Governors University. I married a North Central alumni, and we have two children. The best way to reach me is by email at nicole.gainey@kcsdschools.net.

The Man in the Glass

When you get what you want in your struggle for self, 

and the world makes you king for a day, 

then go to the mirror and look at yourself, 

and see what that man has to say. 

For it isn't a man's father, mother or wife, 

whose judgement upon him must pass, 

the fellow whose verdict counts most in life, 

is the man staring back from the glass. 

He's the fellow to please, nevermind all the rest, 

for he's with you clear to the end, 

and you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test, 

if the man in the glass in your friend. 

You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years, 

and get pats on the back as you pass, 

but the final reward will be heartache and tears, 

if you've cheated the man in the glass. 

-Peter Dale Winbrow, Sr.