Deer Valley Elementary School

Phone: 205-439-3310

Email: nstokes@hoover.k12.al.us

Ms. Nicole Stokes
It's an absolute honor to introduce myself as the principal of Deer Valley, a place I have affectionately called, "My Happy Place" since 2006. I am often asked " What is your vision for Deer Valley?" My vision for Deer Valley is Deer Valley's vision... I want Deer Valley to CONTINUE to be the school where every teacher wants to teach, every student wants to learn, and every parent wants to send their child. I can assure you the people in this building are making this a reality every single day. 

The elementary classroom has always felt like home to me. I enjoyed building long-standing relationships with students and their parents, many of whom became my dearest friends and remain my biggest supporters. I enjoy finding new and exciting ways to make learning fun. However, it is in my position as an administrator where my bucket overflows. The role provides me with the opportunity to work collaboratively with faculty and staff, build authentic and meaningful relationships with students, and work in partnership with families and community members to ensure success. 

The path I have been fortunate to travel here at Deer Valley: classroom teacher to math coach to assistant principal to principal has provided me, a front row seat to the great things happening in and around this place. My goal is to continue the tradition and legacy of excellence. I am committed to always seeking new ways to make Deer Valley's vision a reality. I am committed to working in partnership with faculty/staff to provide a fun and safe learning environment for your children.I am committed to always remembering what it was like to be an elementary school student. Most importantly, I am committed to providing your children with experiences and lessons they will carry with them when they walk out of the doors of Deer Valley for the final time. 

As a faculty , we wholeheartedly recognize the gift you give us each day; to play a small part in the lives of your children. We do not take this lightly. It is the greatest honor of my professional life to walk alongside each of you in this journey we call " Deer Valley Life"!

In partnership,

Nicole Stokes

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education- Alabama A&M University, 2001

Masters of Arts Education in Educational Leadership- University of Alabama at Birmingham 2018

Educational Experiences:

First Grade Teacher, Kate Shepard Elementary School 2001-2006

Second Grade Teacher and Third Grade Teacher, Deer Valley Elementary School, 2006-2013

Math Coach, Deer Valley Elementary School, 2013-2018

Assistant Principal, Deer Valley Elementary School, January 2018- April 2022

Principal, Deer Valley Elementary School, April 2022- Present

Awards:

Teacher of the Year (Kate Shepard Elementary, Deer Valley Elementary)

Outstanding Student in Department of Human Studies, Educational Leadership, 2018 (University of Alabama at Birmingham)