Kindness is everywhere on campus. The everyday actions of WHS students, admin – and most notably – teachers create a culture of compassion that shape the school and the greater community. Nicole Weinberg, English 9 Honors and AP Literature and Composition teacher, was officially honored with the Kelman Kindness Award at a ceremony during lunch on April 11. She was commended for her extensive work as a teacher and her kindhearted connection with her students, leaving a positive impact on many. “I’ve had Ms. Weinberg my freshman year and again my senior year,” said Katie Beaven ‘25. “She consistently [reaches] out to the students and [tries] to connect with them. She’s been super welcoming to anyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity or sexuality.”
The Kelman Kindness Award originated nine years ago, with WHS’s own Coach Rick Kelman. Kelman has consistently exemplified kindness, love and overall joy to the students on campus. After Kelman became the first recipient, this award was named in his honor. Each year, ASG nominates and chooses a staff member that emulates his energy and overall compassion for others.
“[This award is] probably the greatest tribute I’ve ever gotten,” said Kelman. “I think that my mom and dad would be pretty proud of me. It’s a big deal. I love [WHS students] more than life itself, and [they are] all I care about other than my family. WHS kids and staff: that’s my whole reason for living.”
This award is very special to Weinberg as a teacher and also as a close friend of Kelman. She admires the qualities that make him stand out as such a great person, channeling these traits in her everyday interactions – both inside and out of the classroom.
“What [this award] means is really important because I want to live with intention in kindness,” said Weinberg. “Also, I think it’s extra special because it’s Kelman. I love Kelman. I know he epitomizes kindness and goodness, and he’s had so much adversity in his life. He just has the best attitude all the time.”
In her classroom and beyond, Weinberg strives to create a safe and warm environment for those around her, explaining that the key to building a connection with her students is through listening. She also prides herself on wanting to treat people, not as well, but better than she wants to be treated.
“If I’m listening carefully enough and trying to actually understand where students are coming from, then I can find a place where I can insert a connection and develop a rapport where they know that it’s real and that I hear them,” said Weinberg.
Expanding outside of a classroom setting, Weinberg makes it clear that students always have a place to go on campus. In moments where school can become overwhelming or when students are simply in need of a listening ear, Weinberg provides students with care as both a teacher and a friend.
“Throughout all four years I’ve known her, she’s always been super supportive,” said Jonathan Dier ‘25. “She’s someone you can go to when you have a problem or if you have no one to eat with. She’ll be super nice, and she’ll listen to your problems, giving good advice.”
With the incoming freshman and the incoming seniors for the 2025-26 school year, Weinberg will teach a whole new batch of students. As graduating seniors leave her and new students come in, she hopes to expand her mindset and outreach to an even greater number of people.
“I want [my students] to take away what a difference it makes to be kind and pay it forward,” said Weinberg. “It costs nothing. Just be kind.”
