Welcome to the
NICE Community School District
The NICE Community School District serves students and families across more than 680 square miles of Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula, just west of Ishpeming. Our district includes Aspen Ridge School (PreK–8), Westwood High School (9–12), and the Patriot Online Academy, providing quality educational opportunities from early childhood through high school.
Established through the consolidation of four school districts in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the district continues to honor its heritage through the name NICE, representing National Mine, Ishpeming Township, Champion, Humboldt, and Spurr Townships, and Ely Township.
Our schools are committed to providing a positive, dynamic learning environment where every student feels physically safe, emotionally supported, and inspired to succeed. By partnering with families and the community, we help each student reach their full academic, social, and physical potential while fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Together, we strive to prepare students for lifelong success by encouraging curiosity, building confidence, and helping every learner achieve their fullest potential.
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Latest News & Updates...
- A Call for Action on Upper Peninsula Energy LegislationJuly 23, 2026Hello and happy summer. A few months ago, I mentioned the ongoing energy issue facing our Upper Peninsula. TV6 broadcast a good story about it yesterday. The bills in question have already cleared the Michigan House […]
Weekend Youth Football Summer CampJuly 23, 2026Attention all youth football camp attendees! Looking at the forecast today, there is potential for some thunderstorms. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, they will move inside to the gym. Please remember to bring […]
ARES Students’ Butterflies Take Flight at Ishpeming Senior CenterJune 25, 2026From Mrs. Levandoski, ARES Art Teacher: Elementary students, spanning Jr. K-5th Grade, were creating butterflies up until the end of the school year. Families also made some at Family Night in May. Last week, I dropped […]