Nicole Gales, Secretary

Mrs. Nicole Nash Gales was born and raised in Springfield, Illinois by her two very proud parents, Rosemary and Derek Nash.Nicole received her elementary education in parochial schools, and transitioned into Springfield public schools for middle and high school. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois State University in Elementary Education and her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Illinois at Springfield.Nicole began her teaching career in the Springfield Public Schools as a first grade teacher at McClernand Elementary School. Nicole also taught first grade at Feitshans-Edison Magnet School before taking a leave of absence to join the Illinois State Board of Education as the Assistant to the State Superintendent of Education. Nicole served two years as Assistant Principal of Ball Charter and currently is the Principal at Springfield Ball Charter School. Nicole most recently completed her Superintendent Post-Master Certificate at UIS. She is currently working toward a Doctorate of Education from Illinois State University.

Nicole gratefully recognizes supportive parents, faith, spiritual guidance, and grace as the keys to her successes in life.