Jami Rainey Retires, Preeti Nichani Named New Principal Of Northridge Middle School

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS) has appointed Preeti Nichani as the new principal of Northridge Middle School following Jami Rainey announcing his retirement.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

TCS says Nichani has served as principal of Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools–Elementary since 2017, where the school earned a perfect score of 100 on the 2024-25 Alabama State Report Card during her tenure.

Rainey's retirement was announced by NMS on Monday after four years in the position and nearly three decades in education.

Rainey's time at NMS saw the school raise its state report card grade while earning recognitions such as being named both a State and National School of Character, among other honors.

Under Nichani's leadership, Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools-Elementary was recognized as both a State School of Character and a National School of Character.

Earlier this year, Nichani was also named Alabama's 2026 National Distinguished Principal by the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators.

The city school system said Nichani brings 24 years of experience in TCS to her new role and will continue her focus on building strong relationships while helping students succeed.

TCS thanked Rainey for his leadership and dedication to the Northridge Middle School community, noting the school's success reflects the work of its administrators, faculty, staff, students and families.

"He believed in every student, invested in every teacher and staff member, encouraged growth in everyone around him, and led with integrity, humility, and a servant’s heart," NMS said in a Facebook post announcing Rainey's retirement. "Above all, he was guided by a steadfast commitment to always do what was right for kids, making decisions with their best interests at the center of everything he did."

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.