Melissa Edwards Named Permanent Principal at Nelson

After serving in the position in interim since December 2021, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 announced that Melissa Edwards is the permanent principal at N.O. Nelson Elementary. The decision was approved March 28 by the District #7 Board of Education and becomes effective with the start of the 2022-23 school year.   

“Ms. Edwards provided a seamless transition to Nelson earlier this year and has proven herself as a talented and passionate school leader,” said District #7 Superintendent Dr. Patrick Shelton. “We look forward to her continuing to provide leadership and support for the students and staff at Nelson.” 

Edwards joined District #7 prior to the 2020-21 school year as an assistant principal at Liberty Middle School. She previously spent 13 years in the Alton School District, including seven years as an assistant principal at Alton High School. Edwards began her career in education as an eighth-grade math teacher at Alton.  

“I’m incredibly honored to be a part of the Nelson family,” said Edwards. “Students learn and grow so much at the primary level and I’m excited to be a part of their educational journey and look forward to developing a thriving community of learners at Nelson Elementary!” 

Edwards holds a master’s degree in educational administration and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, both from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She is currently pursuing her education specialist degree from SIUE.