Chris Nicastro
Chris Lee Nicastro has worked for over 45 years in the public schools of Missouri and for the last 15 as a consultant to several states and the federal government. Her career spans experience as a high school social studies teacher, school and district administrator, superintendent and chief state school officer. Throughout her career she has focused on advancing the cause of women and underserved populations including children of color and those who live in poverty.
Her leadership has been noted for her inclusive approach to problem-solving and planning. Her relentless insistence on quality schools and quality teachers has been recognized at the local, state and national levels. In 2009 Dr. Nicastro was awarded Missouri Superintendent of the Year, and in 2021 she was given the highest award in education in Missouri—the Pioneer in Education award—by the State Board of Education. Nicastro earned a bachelor's degree in history at Indiana University; a master's degree in educational administration at the University of Missouri-St. Louis; and a Ph.D. at St. Louis University. She continues to serve on numerous non-profit boards and to consult at the district and state levels.