My name is Nicole Stone and I am the proud principal of South Decatur Elementary School. I was born and raised in Decatur County where I attended both North Decatur Elementary and High School. I knew I wanted to be a teacher since the day I was able to spend time before and after school in my mom’s classroom. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Ball State University in 2009. I then received my Master of Education in School Administration degree from Indiana University in 2016. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, sunshine, camping, my career, sports….the list could go on and on. I try to find the joy in all that comes my way!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have been married to my husband Paul for 12 years. He is a business owner here in Greensburg. We have three boys, Luke who is 9, Cole who is 8, both of whom are very active in sports throughout the year. Grant is two and spends most of his time on the field or court watching his big brothers.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I was a teacher for 8 years, assistant principal for 4, and this is my second year as principal. I knew I wanted to be in the world of education from a very young age. My family is built on educators and I truly mean it when I say I love school. I still get excited when everything smells fresh in the fall and the students are excited to be back. It’s hard to pick one thing I love most, I think knowing that I have the ability every day to help, guide, and care for every single person, big or small – I come in contact with!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Decatur County my entire life – all 37 years!
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Whew….that’s a hard question! The most interesting person I have ever met would be Margaret Davis. I am laughing as I type this….I have many memories with her from school, to sports, to her randomly dropping an inappropriate word, at an inappropriate time. With all of that said – she is also one of the funniest people and has a huge heart and a lasting impact on everyone she meets.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Hmmm….somewhere with a beach, pool, and sunshine! I am happiest outside with my family…. in that moment, all is right in the world.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite childhood movie is Matilda! I loved the book, the movie, and I always wanted to be just like Miss Honey when I grew up! As an adult…to be honest, I am a true crime junkie!
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. I am constantly reminded that many of our worries or struggles are not big at all. We can only control what we can control and after that – be the best person you can be. As I get older, I often think about the mark I will leave when I am no longer on this Earth. Learn from your mistakes, because you will have them….learn from your experiences, because that’s what will widen your view, and ultimately be the best person you can be every day.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I would love to teach a college course someday with beginning teachers! There are many opinions regarding public education and those who say you shouldn’t become a teacher, while some concerns are valid, I would love to share why I love the profession and reasons I think new teachers will too!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
So many came to mind! Doodle Buddies, Club 46 Roller Rink, watching them make pizzas at Noble Romans, and Harvest Supermarket are at the top of the list. Let’s go with Harvest Supermarket – I remember stopping and grabbing ‘just a few things’ with my mom growing up. As they say…here I am doing the same thing as an adult. It’s an added bonus when the Super Twist truck is there!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would love to have lunch with Peyton Manning. He is such a respectable, influential, and talented person. We would enjoy over-sized breaded tenderloins from Stories. I would have to invite my boys and I’m sure he would be cracking jokes while mixing in some great advice.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Our community is special because your neighbors are there for you through the ups and the downs – and our neighbors can live on opposite ends of the county. There is something special that connects us at a time of need.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I hope to still be learning with amazing educators and getting hugs from students every day!
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am a super-competitive person. Many activities with my family and sometimes friends turns into a game or competition…..usually light-hearted!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I loved it when we went to Montego Bay, Jamaica! The landscape was beautiful, the people were friendly, and I have wonderful memories.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month would be June, my favorite holiday would be Christmas, and I can’t just pick one day! I enjoy certain days throughout the entire year.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
As much as I hate to admit it, it would be my husband Paul. He is my calm and biggest supporter. As my career is demanding or I have another crazy idea for school, he provides honest feedback, helps with the kids, all while being selfless and helping every single person he comes in contact with. I want to be a better person because I see the positive effect he has on people!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Welcoming, hard-working & loved
