Affective Needs

Nicole Dell - Affective Needs

Hi! I’m Nicole Dell, and I’m excited to begin my fourth year at Soaring Hawk Elementary as the Affective Needs Teacher. This is my 15th year teaching special education and my 19th year working in education. I am passionate about helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while creating an environment where every child feels safe, supported, and celebrated.

My career in education began with volunteering in classrooms and supporting students who struggled with reading, which led me to work as a substitute teacher. During that time, I found myself drawn to special education. It felt as though special education had found me. I later worked as a paraprofessional for four years, an experience that gave me a strong foundation for understanding and meeting diverse student needs. I felt that same sense of purpose when I began teaching students with Affective Needs. Collaborating with a dedicated team to bring out the best in students, build upon their strengths, and celebrate their successes is a joy like no other.

I earned my Master of Arts in Special Education from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and my Bachelor of Science in Social Science from Florida State University. I also hold a certificate in the Neurosequential Model in Education (NME) and am credentialed in Orton-Gillingham multisensory instruction. 

Outside of school, I’m married and a proud mom of two—my daughter, Jasmine, who has two wonderful children of her own, and my son, Joseph, who lives in Austin, Texas. A fun fact about me is that I’m also a twin! In my free time, I enjoy trying new recipes, spending time with friends and family, and getting outdoors for a walk or run on the trail near my home.

I feel grateful every day to do this work, and I look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with the students, families, and staff at Soaring Hawk!