Director of Career Development
Years of Experience: 26+
About Me
Hello! With over 26 years in K-12 education, I’ve dedicated my career to nurturing talent, championing growth, and guiding professionals toward their full potential. From my early days as a science teacher and model teacher leader to roles in induction, teacher effectiveness, and organizational development, I’ve had the privilege of supporting educators and staff at every level of our school system.
My passion for career development is rooted in a simple belief: Everyone deserves to grow in a role that honors their strengths, fuels their purpose, and advances their dreams. In my work, I combine strategic foresight with compassionate leadership to ensure every employee, whether in the classroom, the cafeteria, the central office, or the community, feels seen, supported, and empowered to lead their own career journey.
As the Director of Career Development, I lead our district-wide vision to build equitable, transparent, and high-impact career pathways for all staff. Whether through coaching conversations, development plans, workshops, or internal mobility initiatives, my goal is to make career development a vibrant, ongoing part of the APS experience.
I believe that meaningful careers don’t happen by accident, they’re built through reflection, access, opportunity, and advocacy. I’m here to ensure that every employee, no matter where they start, has the tools and support to go further.
Let’s create your path forward, on purpose!
Is Nikki the Right Career Counselor for You?
What type of roles do they support?
☐ All Non-Instructional Roles
☐ Non-Instructional Roles below level 133
☐ All Instructional Roles
☐ Instructional Roles up to 10 years of experience
☒ All Roles
What career level do they specialize in?
☐ Early Career (0-5 years of experience)
☐ Mid-Career to Professional (6-15 years of experience)
☐ Senior-Level & Leadership (15+ years of experience)
☒ All Career Levels
What’s their coaching style?
☐ Encouraging and collaborative - helping clients find their own solutions
☐ Direct but supportive - challenging clients just enough to push forward
☐ Strategic and structured - offering clear frameworks and goal-setting strategies
☒ A mix of all the above, depending on client needs
Areas of specialty:
While all our career counselors are equipped to support you in a wide range of career development areas, each counselor has particular strengths and areas of expertise. These specialties highlight where they bring additional insight, experience, or passion - but rest assured, no matter who you choose, you will receive comprehensive support tailored to your needs.
☒ Career transitions
☐ Resume and cover letter development
☒ Interview preparation
☒ Professional branding and networking
☒ Leadership readiness and development
☒ Skill development and growth strategies
☒ Career progression within APS
