PHOTOS: Gaithersburg High School to 'Go for Gold' in 2012-13

 When the new school year started Monday, principal Dr. Christine Handy-Collins likened her Trojans to Team USA, saying Team Gaithersburg would be going for gold.

Handy-Collins was inspired by American gold medal-winning gymnast Gabby Douglas and how she overcame challenges, made sacrifices and worked hard to fulfill her dream. The principal would like her students, faculty and staff to apply those same attitudes to the school year.

"We want to do our best, use a lot of the same skills and characteristics that the Olympians had to use when you’re talking about a team, how we have to work together," Handy-Collins told Patch shortly after the 7:25 a.m. bell rang for the start of first period. "We have to persevere, we have to be coachable. So no matter whether you’re a teacher, student, parent, our community we want to be 'Team GHS' and come together as one working towards common goals."

Notably absent from school Monday was 15-year-old junior Nicole Marie Polen. on Thursday, Aug. 23.

Handy-Collins said she had the opportunity to visit with Polen's family at the hospital last week and school counselors are available and ready to speak with any students who may want to talk.

"We’re certainly saddened by what has happened and we are keeping in touch with the family and certainly our prayers and thoughts are with [the Polens]," Handy-Collins said. Nicole was a member of the swim team and cross-country team. "So those students are anxiously awaiting a time when they can send her cards and flowers and just let her know that we love her here at Gaithersburg High School. She’s a part of the Trojan family," Handy-Collins said.