05/08/2025
Dear Nikolaevsk School Families,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the official decision made during Monday night’s board meeting: Nikolaevsk School will close at the end of this school year. While this marks a difficult moment for our community, I want to recognize the strength, resilience, and unity that our families, students, and staff have shown throughout this time.
My sincere hope had been that, with increased enrollment and a meaningful rise in the Base Student Allocation (BSA), we could remain open for at least one more year—allowing for a smoother transition and providing families, staff, and district leadership the time to thoughtfully plan for what might come next.
During the meeting, members of the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board expressed their intent to support our community as we navigate the path forward. In addition, early conversations have begun between families currently attending Nikolaevsk School and representatives from the Kenai Peninsula Borough regarding possible future uses of the building and ideas to continue serving the educational needs of this area. More information will be shared as it becomes available, and I encourage families to stay informed and engaged as we help shape what’s next—together.
As you may know, last week I accepted a district contract to serve as principal/teacher at Susan B. English School beginning next school year. This decision came after much reflection and was not made lightly. It is with great sadness that I prepare to step away from this remarkable school and community. It has truly been an honor to serve the families of Nikolaevsk—especially your children. Watching them learn, grow, and thrive has been the greatest privilege of my work.
Please know that I remain fully committed to supporting you and your children through this transition. Whether it’s helping navigate school placement, accessing records, or simply being available to talk—I am here for you.
I carry immense pride in the culture of care, creativity, and community that we’ve built together at Nikolaevsk. Thank you for your trust and partnership over the years. Our student Warriors have left a lasting imprint on my heart, and I will always be grateful to have shared in this journey with them—and with all of you.
With deep appreciation and continued support,
Diane Maples
Principal, Nikolaevsk School
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
Cell: (907) 290-9467
NOTE: Upcoming events:
• Warrior of the Month Announcement, Friday, May 9
• Family Engagement, Friday, May 9
o Sign up by May 8, 5PM, required for pre-planning
o https://forms.office.com/r/Ey11Wzf0a1
• Family Emergency Skills Training, May 12-16
o CPR/First Aid, Safe Babysitter 1 - 3PM (M-Fri)
o ETT 3- 7PM (M-Fri)
o Sign up by May 11, 4 PM, for ETT required for pre-planning
o https://forms.office.com/r/Ey11Wzf0a1
• Nikolaevsk School Presents: Academic Achievement & Promotion Assembly, March 16, 11:00 AM
• Nikolaevsk School presentation to the KPBSD Board of Education, June 2, 2025 (Tentative)
