(WHNT) — After more than three decades in education, one North Alabama leader is preparing to turn the page. But before he does, he’s taking a moment to reflect on where it all began, and the people who shaped the journey. Dr. Ed Nichols path to leading one of the state’s top school systems didn’t start in an office. It started in a band room. “I joined the band in high school,” said Nichols, who is the superintendent of the Madison City Schools.