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Ms. Coughlin, Principal

Catholic Classroom When Nancy first arrived at St. Mary’s School in 1992, she brought her two children to the school, as well. As graduates of St. Mary’s School, they found lifelong friendships with their classmates. “Maintaining some of the same friendships from your elementary school days is a lost art and something that is difficult to find in large schools. St. Mary’s remains famous for its family atmosphere and lasting friendships,” she comments. Nancy’s interest in education began as early as high school when she was a classroom aide in a Montessori School for 2 years. She majored in Elementary Education at Illinois State University. Upon graduation, she continued her education at Illinois State, studying Counselor Education at the elementary grade level. Her teaching experience at St. Rita of Cascia in Aurora included both full time and part time teaching. There, her teaching assignments varied. They included teaching a self-contained 5th grade, and teaching math and science to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. Because of her interest in leadership theories and methods, Nancy furthered her education by studying educational leadership at National Louis University, receiving her Master of Education degree. After hearing about the leadership position at St. Mary’s School in 1992, she took a chance on applying for that position, and has been filling it happily and successfully ever since.

Nancy Coughlin has served St. Mary’s Parish School as principal for the past 14 years. Beginning her 15th year, she feels as focused and enthused in her position as she did during her first year.

Ms. Coughlin is pleased to be part of young people’s formation as they develop into faithful citizens serving in today’s society. Nancy is also convinced that the financial commitment parents make to Catholic school education is as important as the financial investment they make to send children on to college. Speaking candidly, she points out that “Faith formation may not happen naturally. Training is involved. Though the parents can begin that process at home, education in a parochial school environment continues their efforts and compliments it. It does take a village to train up a child. And I am excited to be at a parish school and work with a staff that does just that!”