For over a decade, Nicole Wilson has dedicated her career to transforming how students experience mathematics. With twelve years of teaching experience—six of those at Gray Collegiate Academy—she is a cornerstone of the school’s math department, currently teaching Honors Geometry. Her journey into education was sparked by a high school calculus teacher who recognized her talent and encouraged her to explore math education. That mentorship led her to pursue a five-year combined bachelor’s and master’s program at the University of South Carolina, where she earned degrees in both mathematics and secondary education.
While Ms. Wilson has taught Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, her heart lies with Geometry. “Geometry is by far my favorite subject to teach,” she says, emphasizing her enthusiasm for helping students uncover the beauty and logic of the subject.
What sets Ms. Wilson apart as an educator is not just her content knowledge, but her deep-rooted belief that every student has the potential to succeed in math. “There is no one who cannot do math,” she asserts. She is committed to creating a classroom culture where mistakes are welcomed as essential steps in the learning process and where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to try—especially when the material gets tough.
Ms. Wilson treasures the moments when a student’s confusion turns into clarity; when a child’s eyes light up because a difficult concept finally makes sense. What she treasures even more are the connections she makes with her students. “It’s the little things, like receiving drawings from students or having them return years later to visit, that truly leave a lasting impression,” she said.
Her experience at Gray Collegiate Academy has amplified her effectiveness as a teacher. Ms. Wilson values the independence and authority she is given to shape her classroom and adapt lessons to meet her students’ unique needs. “The flexibility to implement my own teaching strategies fosters creativity, engagement, and meaningful learning,” she explains.
Looking ahead, Ms. Wilson is excited to take on a new challenge—teaching 8th grade at Gray’s new campus in Irmo. She sees this as an opportunity not only to reach younger students but also to play a key role in building a new academic community from the ground up.
Thank you, Ms. Wilson, for all of the work you have done and your commitment to the Gray Collegiate community!
