Nicole Young-Smith

Nicole Young-Smith is a seasoned educator and leader with 28 years of experience in various teaching and administrative roles. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Southern University and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership/Principalship from Xavier University. Her career has been marked by a deep commitment to equity, student achievement, and the professional growth of educators. Most recently, she served as the Director of Early Childhood Education, where she championed strong foundations for lifelong learning.

Ms. Young-Smith’s top priority as an educator is ensuring that every scholar has the opportunity to achieve academic success at the highest levels. She is driven by a deep love for students and a belief in their potential to live lives they may have never imagined for themselves. This passion is the force behind her dedication to education and her unwavering commitment to student growth and success.

Her greatest strength as an educator is her ability to inspire and support both students and instructional staff. Each year, she looks forward to the meaningful daily interactions that fuel her purpose—offering guidance, encouragement, and a sense of possibility to everyone she works with.

Ms. Young-Smith was drawn to Athlos Academy because of its unique, whole-child approach to education. She strongly believes in the power of the Athlos model, which integrates Prepared Mind, Healthy Body, and Performance Character. When executed with fidelity, she believes this model creates the ideal environment for students to thrive—academically, physically, and emotionally.