Dr. Engelke has devoted nearly three decades to teaching and leading in NJ and NYC private schools, working with students and partnering with parents to help their children overcome academic stress and achieve academic success. She has taught and tutored students from kindergarten to college, coached faculty on best practices, served on admissions committees, conducted applicant student assessments, and led schools in implementing institutional vision.

Nicole attended New Jersey independent schools through high school, and is also the mom of two sons who have attended local independent and public schools. Nicole has real, first-hand experience from every facet of independent school education: student, educator, administrator, and parent.

Nicole has also led the accreditation process and been part of several accreditation visiting teams, which gives her a unique perspective and understanding of the necessary ingredients that make a successful independent school.

For much of the last 10 years, Nicole served as an independent school Division Director and Associate Head of School. “Although I loved so much about being in school leadership, the most satisfying part for me has always been helping a student find the key that unlocks their potential and seeing them gain confidence, grow, and thrive. There is nothing better.”