Greenville Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of Beloved Middle School Principal Nicky Andrews
GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Greenville County School District is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of one of its most devoted educators. Principal Nicky Andrews, the highly respected and deeply loved leader of Greenville Middle Academy, passed away unexpectedly this week, leaving a profound void in the hearts of students, staff, families, and the broader Greenville community.
Principal Andrews, known for her unwavering dedication to her students and her tireless advocacy for educational excellence, led Greenville Middle Academy with a spirit of compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Her unexpected passing has sent shockwaves throughout the district, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss of a woman who was not only an administrator but also a mentor, friend, and role model to countless young lives.
A Legacy of Leadership and Compassion
During her tenure at Greenville Middle Academy, Principal Andrews was widely admired for her hands-on leadership style and her ability to connect personally with students. Her office door was always open, and her presence in classrooms, hallways, and school events was a source of comfort and inspiration for many.
“She wasn’t just a principal — she was the heartbeat of this school,” said eighth-grade teacher Jenna Watson. “She knew every student’s name, and she cared about their success, both in and out of the classroom. Her leadership made this school feel like a family.”
Under Andrews’ guidance, Greenville Middle Academy saw rising academic performance, improved student engagement, and a positive school culture that emphasized kindness, accountability, and perseverance. Her belief in every student’s potential was a driving force behind her work, and she was known for celebrating even the smallest victories in a child’s journey.
District and Community Respond
In a statement released by the Greenville County School District, Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster expressed his sorrow and praised Andrews’ extraordinary contribution to education.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Principal Nicky Andrews. She was a pillar of leadership, compassion, and professionalism in our district. Her loss is not just felt by the staff and students of Greenville Middle Academy but by the entire community she touched. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who loved her.”
The district has made grief counselors available at Greenville Middle Academy and neighboring schools to help students and staff navigate the emotional impact of this loss. Many teachers and students have been encouraged to share memories and messages of gratitude for Principal Andrews, with some already creating tribute walls, video messages, and artwork in her honor.
Students Remember Their Principal
For many students, Principal Andrews was more than an administrator — she was a trusted adult who made them feel seen and supported. Her signature phrase, “Every day is a chance to grow,” was recited during morning announcements and has become a guiding principle in the school’s culture.
“She helped me believe in myself,” said seventh-grader Maya Torres. “When I was having a hard time last year, she noticed and talked to me. She made me feel like I mattered.”
Student leaders have already begun organizing a candlelight vigil and remembrance ceremony, planned to take place on the school’s front lawn later this week. The event is expected to draw hundreds of community members who want to pay tribute to a woman who gave so much of herself to the school and the children in her care.
Looking Ahead
As the school grapples with this immense loss, district officials say they are working on a transition plan to ensure continuity of leadership and support for students and staff in the coming weeks. A permanent successor will be named at a later date, but for now, the focus remains on honoring Andrews’ memory and caring for the community she helped build.
In the words of longtime Greenville Middle Academy counselor Mary Collins, “This school is her legacy — her love, her strength, her spirit. We will carry that forward, together.”
The district has set up a memorial fund in Andrews’ honor to support student enrichment programs at Greenville Middle Academy, continuing the work she cared about so deeply.
Principal Nicky Andrews leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, leadership, and learning — one that will echo in the halls of Greenville Middle Academy for generations to come.
