Nokesville Teen Never Missed Single Day of School

by Samantha Scarola

Contributor

Nokesville resident and Osbourn Park High School senior Mariah Nicholas has not missed a single day of school from kindergarten through her senior year.

“In sixth grade, I realized that I hadn’t missed a day of school, and I figured that I might as well keep up with it,” Nicholas said.

Mariah’s mother, Stacy Nicholas, believes Mariah demonstrated an enthusiasm for school at a young age, which made her want to attend. However, once Mariah became aware of her perfect attendance, she made a conscious effort not to break her streak.

“She was always excited to go to school and show off her new dresses or hats, or just be with her friends. Once she got past the sixth grade, she just felt she needed to continue her perfect attendance,” said Stacy Nicholas.

Mariah attributes her perfect attendance record to her morning routine.

“I wake up at 5:30 a.m., leave my house at 6:30, and get to school at 6:56 every morning,” said Nicholas. “It’s not a matter of punctuality. I just feel the need to be at school everyday. I do not want to miss any information."

While most students will incur the occasional absence, especially during cold and flu season, Mariah has been fortunate to avoid getting sick.

“Mariah is a very healthy girl,” said Mrs. Nicholas.

Nicholas said her secret for staying healthy is to drink plenty of orange juice.

Mariah has also had the challenge of arriving to school on time every day for 13 years. When life’s little inconveniences get in the way, Nicholas has risen to the occasion.

“My sophomore year I was on my way to school, and I was running so late.  I got out of the car by the Eastern Motors at the end of Euclid Ave., and I ran from there to school.  That was the closest I have ever been to missing school,” said Nicholas.  “My worst nightmares are being extremely late to school.”

In honor of her endurance, Nicholas was recognizied by Osbourn Park High School for her perfect attendance.

“I think that attendance is key to all aspects of life,” Nicholas said.