PAC Academy

A Message from Principal Nickerson

Greetings!  Welcome to Marion P. Thomas Charter School Performing Arts & Culinary Academy (MPTCS - PAC)!

It is truly a privilege and a blessing to be the Principal of Marion P. Thomas Charter School PAC Academy.  As a servant-leader, I have always been passionate in how to engage and uplift scholars to higher heights both academically and socially.   I come to this role with over 20 years of educational experience.  I have spent time as a teacher of various grade levels, supervisor of content areas, and accumulated 12 years of experience in the administrative role.  While being a Principal is not new to me, I look forward to the “newness” that PAC Academy will bring forth.

With open arms, I welcome all stakeholders to MPTCS PAC Academy.  Our mission is consistent with the MPTCS District: “The mission of Marion P. Thomas Charter School is to build culturally rich, transformative educational spaces that cultivate successful, lifelong innovators who use their passions, character, and intellect to better themselves, the greater Newark community, and the world beyond.”                                                    

Here at PAC, our purpose is to prepare our scholars to be able to leave their own positive imprint  that challenges the status quo, to be thrivers and not survivors, and to take what they have gained to not only empower themselves, but to empower those that they are connected to. We understand the responsibility that we have to educate our scholars and we don’t take this opportunity lightly.  We understand that together we make a difference.  As our motto expressly states, “It takes a village to raise a child.”  Together we will meet the needs of our scholars.

Realizing that Marion P. Thomas has a wonderful tradition, an outstanding support staff, teachers who are concerned about the well-being and academic success of our students, a supportive community of care, and involved families – joining the “Village” was a decision that required minimal thought! 

Additionally, as we are Reimagining the Village for the 2023-2024 school year, our District has implemented a new curriculum.  Our dedicated teachers and assistants will continue to foster the academic and social development of our scholars. The amazing Administrative staff will work their magic to keep the school humming.  Finally and most importantly, we will continue to love and support your child and team up with our entire staff to lead your dear children toward success. 

In closing, I hope you enjoy our website and learning about MPTCS PAC.  If you should ever have any questions about our school or your child’s individual needs, our team is always available to speak with you. We welcome your contact any time.

With warm regards,

Principal NaTasha Nickerson