Panton is “Kicking It Up a Knox” to usher in a new era at Knox Middle School with a vision focused on student growth, engagement, and school-wide collaboration.
This year marks a fresh chapter at Knox Middle School, with newly appointed Principal Nicole Panton leading the way. After serving as the District’s Director of Curriculum and Instruction since 2017, Panton stepped into her new role this summer as part of a district-wide leadership transition initiated by Superintendent Koster’s appointment—changes that also brought a new principal to Johnstown High School.
For Panton, the move to Knox was a natural next step—and one that all of her previous experience in education prepared her well for.
“Middle school is one of the most pivotal stages in a young person’s life,” she said. “We have the unique opportunity to help students discover who they are, what drives them, and what their future could look like.”
Wasting no time, Panton spent the summer shaping her vision for Knox Middle School. She focused on building systems that promote a strong school culture, encourage positive behavior, and foster collaboration among staff—all with student success at the center.
One of her first big initiatives? “Kick It Up a Knox”—a school-wide effort aimed at celebrating students who demonstrate strong attendance, good citizenship, and positive engagement. To launch the program in memorable fashion, Panton enlisted a special guest: Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox, who surprised students with a recorded message. Even non-Bills fans were impressed by the gesture!
Rather than dive straight into academics, the first days of school were intentionally structured around connection and community-building. Panton and her team designed enrichment activities to help students settle in, get to know each other, form bonds with teachers, and understand the expectations that would guide them throughout the year.
“I believe in meeting each student where they are, listening to their story, and supporting them in finding their path,” Panton shared. “The potential in our students is limitless, and it’s our job to help them see that in themselves—perhaps for the very first time.”
An essential part of student success lies in providing meaningful opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom—through clubs, after-school programs, and extracurricular activities. Knox Middle School currently offers more than ten active clubs, including Cooking Club, Show Choir, Minecraft, Student Council, Battle of the Books, Yearbook, Art Club, Jazz Band, Green Club, and Odyssey of the Mind.
Principal Panton is also working to expand student involvement by revamping the school’s morning announcements to launch a student-run morning newscast, giving students the chance to lead, create, and present content to their peers. Stay tuned—more details coming soon!
“My mission is to foster a school culture where both students and staff are encouraged to take meaningful risks—to step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and grow from the experience,” Panton said. “By increasing student voice and offering more opportunities for involvement, we help them uncover passions and strengths they may not have recognized before.”
“Principal Panton brings an incredible blend of experience, heart, and vision to Knox Middle School,” Superintendent Alicia D. Koster said. “Her focus on relationships, engagement, and student voice has already begun to transform the school’s culture. ‘Kick It Up a Knox’ is more than just a slogan—it’s a mindset that celebrates growth, belonging, and collaboration. Under her leadership, Knox is truly entering a new era where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.”
With Principal Panton at the helm, Knox Middle School is off to an energetic and inspiring start—ready to “kick it up” in every way.