When Johnson Elementary announced it would include Pre-K in its educational offerings, Nicki Stump took immediate interest.

 

“She was the first teacher to say she wanted a Pre-K position. She’s the mother of two young children and it’s something that comes natural to her. That’s really where her heart has been,” said JES Assistant Principal Heather Holbert.

 

Stump is part of the JES family. She taught Kindergarten there for for five years before taking on Pre-K at the beginning of the school year. Prior to that time, she taught at Cubby’s Child Care Center.

 

The students love her, as do the teachers, administration and staff, who are now joining together to help Stump in her four-year battle with ovarian cancer.

 

“That’s just what Johnson Elementary is all about, being a family here. That’s just the way we roll,” Holbert said. “Our motto is ‘Family First.’”

 

To show Stump, her husband Jason, their fifth-grade daughter and Kindergarten-age son their love, the JES family has organized some activities to provide support, comfort and financial help. The schools’ social committee, spearheaded by Leslie Morgan and Bethany Kulchock, are delivering hand-written notes from staff members. The notes arrive frequently, letting Stump know she is in their constant thoughts.

 

The committee has also organized Hat Day, to be held Thursday for Pre-K and Friday for grades Kindergarten through fifth grade.

 

“All JES students and staff are encouraged to show their support for Mrs. Stump by wearing a hat,” Holbert said. “Suggested donation is $1 or more.”

 

Johnson Elementary has also established a monetary collection to support Mrs. Stump and her family during this time.  Those interested can send donations to Johnson Elementary School, 601 Johnson Avenue, Bridgeport, WV, 26330.  Checks can be made payable to Nicki Stump.  Donations can also be made at any MVB Bank, noting that it is for Jason and Nicki Stump. 

 

Stump has displayed great strength and dedication as she has endured treatments and continued to be a compassionate, positive teacher and mother.

 

“She puts her heels in and says she’s doing it for her kids,” Holbert. “You would never be able to tell what is going on medically. She’s been in her a wheelchair, wheeling down the hall. She is the most resilient person.”

 

Stump has taught her coworkers at Johnson Elementary much about strength, dedication and attitude.

 

They are most grateful to be able to do something for her, her husband and children; all part of the JES family.