Nicole Spicer

“As a Surge Fellow, I will have opportunities to develop my leadership style and voice to infuse culturally sensitive social, emotional and restorative policies and practices. It is my responsibility to take the children that come empty and hardened by a non-supportive system and transform them into successful global citizens, ensuring the perpetuity of the voices of color at the table.”

Nicole Spicer is in the midst of her 6th year as the founding principal at Bronzeville Classical School in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Nicole is proud of how Bronzeville Classical has added value to the community through service learning, offering experiential learning opportunities through partnership Classrooms 2 Careers and Kids Science Lab, and developing a partnership with VOCEL for a Child Parent Academy for infants through preschool aged children.

Nicole began her teaching career 23 years ago as a Diverse Learner Teacher, then a middle school Reading teacher and interventionist, finally transitioning to a Instructional Coach before beginning her leadership journey in Chicago Public Schools. During her tenure as a teacher and teacher leader, she held various roles in the school, which helped prepare her for her future role as an assistant principal, now principal.

Nicole is a ‘97 Golden Apple Scholar and Crystal Apple recipient for the completion of at least 5 years of teaching in an IL school of need. She holds degrees from Western Illinois University and from the University of West Georgia. Most recently, she was named one of the 2023 Chicago Public Schools – Network 9 Game Changers. Nicole has been intentional in her commitment to continuous professional growth through her active leadership of a Masterclass/IAA Course sponsored by The Chicago Public Education Fund, active participation in programming sponsored by The Fund and the CPS Department of Principal Quality and dedication to her school community.