Mrs. Nicole Smiland has been a dedicated member of the Holy Family School community for over 20 years. She began her journey at Holy Family in 2001 as an after-school program counselor and has since served in a variety of roles, including teacher’s aide, substitute teacher, and classroom teacher. In 2012, she stepped into her current role as a 4th-grade teacher, where she continues to inspire and guide her students each day.

A graduate of California State University, Los Angeles, Mrs. Smiland earned her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Elementary Education and holds a Clear California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. Her academic background, combined with decades of hands-on classroom experience, has shaped a teaching style that is both engaging and supportive. Her teaching philosophy focuses on educating the whole child—fostering academic growth alongside kindness, respect, faith, and compassion—while creating a classroom environment where students feel valued, encouraged, and empowered to take ownership of their learning. She believes in challenging her students to reach their fullest potential while celebrating their unique strengths and accomplishments.

Mrs. Smiland and her husband are proud parents of two children who attend Holy Family School. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family—whether watching her children’s sports games, relaxing at the beach, or taking trips to the mountains, always making the most of the time they share. She feels truly blessed to watch her students grow into curious, capable, and compassionate young people, and to be part of the Holy Family School community.