Today is a bittersweet day at Nichols as we say goodbye to a staff member who, in just a few short years, has woven himself into the fabric of our community: Mr. Chris Cloutier.

To the rest of Western New York, Chris is a superstar forward for the Buffalo Bandits, a local celebrity, and a three-time National Lacrosse League champion. But inside the walls of Nichols, he has simply been "Mr. Cloutier," a mentor, a coach, and a smiling face that students genuinely looked forward to seeing every day. It is rare to have a professional athlete on staff, but what stood out most wasn't his status; it was his humility, his accessibility, and the incredible rapport he built with our students.

When asked about his favorite memories from Nichols, "Clooch" didn’t talk about wins or accolades. Instead, he mentioned a moment involving a student who showed up to a Bandits game with a handmade sign that read: "Mr. Cloutier, does this mean I get an A in Gym?"

"It was hilarious, and it was cool to see," Chris recalled. "That was a pretty special moment."

It is that exact intersection of fun and mentorship that made him such a favorite here. He used his platform not just to teach athletics, but to shape character. He was quick to remind students that talent only gets you so far. It's how you treat others that matters more.

"I try and really harp on the importance of being a good teammate," Chris said of his teaching philosophy. "You learn at an older age that it is very much a team sport; you need the last guy on the bench just as much as you need the first guy... First things first, you have to be a good teammate. It's about the controllable stuff off the field that is more important."

So, why are we saying goodbye? Chris has signed a new contract with the Las Vegas Desert Dogs, offering him the rare opportunity to return to being a full-time professional lacrosse player.

"It's something I never thought I'd be able to do again," he admitted. "This move allows me to be a full-time lacrosse player and possibly prolong my career by putting the extra time into my body."

While he is excited to chase this new chapter in the desert, he leaves with a deep appreciation for the Nichols community. He noted that the support he received from the administration, which allowed him to balance a pro schedule with school duties, was vital, but it was the acceptance from his peers that meant the most.

"The respect I was given right when I walked in the front door, from my colleagues all the way down to the students... Nichols has been an amazing place to work, and I would recommend it to anyone," he said.

There is, however, one thing he might miss more than the Nichols community. When asked about leaving, he was adamant: "Buffalo chicken wings. It's a fact. I've tried them all around... they're trash everywhere [else]. 100%."

Mr. Cloutier, thank you for writing a chapter of your story at Nichols. Thank you for the lessons on teamwork, the laughter, and for showing our students what it looks like to be a champion. We will be cheering for you in Vegas. Best of luck...just don't take it out on the Bandits when you're back in town!