Justin Nicklous
Justin Nicklous
Sisters Middle School Principal
Message: Sisters Middle School
Principal, Justin Nicklous grew up in the country near Newberg, Oregon. Following high school he attended Central Oregon Community College and Lane Community College before earning his bachelor's degree in education from Western Oregon University. He later completed his Master's degree in Educational Administration at Lewis & Clark College. Justin’s career in education began in the Sherwood School District, where he taught fifth and sixth grades for 11 years. During his time in Sherwood, he also coached high school basketball at Sherwood, Southridge, and Beaverton High Schools, developing a passion for mentoring students both in and out of the classroom.
In 2006, his wife and family moved to Central Oregon where he first became part of the Sisters Middle School staff. Justin spent six years at SMS teaching fifth grade as well as seventh and eighth-grade math. During that time, he also served as Dean of Students and continued coaching basketball. After 17 years in the classroom, he transitioned into school administration, becoming the principal at Tumalo Community School for nine years and Elton Gregory MS for another four years before returning to Sisters Middle School as principal in 2025.
In Mr. Nick’s free time he enjoys fishing, especially at the Oregon coast, going on walks with his wife, and vacationing with his wife and adult children. You can also find him working outside on his tractor or quad on their small hobby farm outside of Sisters.
"Outlaw Spirit is the courage to do what's right, the determination to persevere through challenges, and the commitment to lift others up. Outlaws lead with integrity, serve others, and never stop striving to improve themselves and those around them."
At Sisters Middle School, we believe that education has the power to transform lives and strengthen communities. Every child who walks through our doors has unlimited potential, and it is our privilege to help them discover their unique strengths, talents, and purpose. We are committed to ensuring that every student feels known, valued, and inspired to grow, not only as a learner, but as a compassionate, resilient, and responsible human being. We want our students to understand that they are part of something greater than themselves. Their journey begins with self and family and expands to their school, community, state, nation, and world. Along the way, they develop the character, confidence, and sense of responsibility to make a positive difference wherever life leads them.
As principal, Justin is committed to leading with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every young person. The foundation of the school is built on trust, trust earned through listening, empathy, authentic relationships, shared leadership, and leading by example. Together, the school community is creating an environment where every student feels safe, welcomed, and empowered to take ownership of their learning, where every voice matters and every relationship counts. The dedicated staff believes deeply in what students can achieve and is relentless in helping them succeed. Justin hopes that every student leaves the school not only academically prepared, but with the confidence to lead, the courage to serve others, and the character to make the community, and the world, a better place.