Principal Profile: Nicole Williams' Summer of Sunshine, Sandcastles, and Special Moments

As the newly appointed principal of Johnson Elementary, Nicole Williams is already inspiring Dragons with her passion for education and community. But this summer, before the school year begins, she’s savoring something just as meaningful—quality time with her family in one of their favorite places.

The Williams family spends part of their summer recharging in the peaceful coastal town of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Nestled along Florida’s scenic 30A, it’s become a cherished tradition for Nicole, her husband Ryan, their two young children Emersen (4) and Everett (2), and their trio of golden retrievers—Clove, Lily, and Winnie.

“We are so fortunate to get to spend a lot of time there in the summer,” Ms. Williams shares. “It’s a place that brings our whole family together.”

This June, the full crew will head to the beach house for a few relaxing weeks. Ms. Williams' parents will join, and the home often becomes a hub for extended family and lifelong friends to reconnect and unwind. While the cast of visitors changes from year to year, one thing remains constant: the joy of being together.

From building sandcastles with her little ones to sipping morning coffee on the porch with her mom (always on the lookout for dolphins!), Ms. Williams treasures the simple moments. Long walks with the goldens, family meals, laughter, and the rhythm of the waves help create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.

“Vacations are wonderful,” she says, “but for me, it’s the dedicated time spent with my family that makes the summer months so special.”

As the Johnson Elementary community gets ready to officially welcome Principal Williams this fall, it’s clear that her love for family and meaningful connections will be right at home in Dragon Nation.