This month, Special Olympics Illinois is proud to highlight Nowal Shalash, a special education teacher, Unified coach, and member of the Education Leaders Network (ELN) whose passion for inclusion helps create meaningful opportunities for students every day.
Nowal first became involved with Special Olympics Illinois in 2023 in an unexpected way. While interviewing for her current teaching position at Victor J. Andrew High School, the assistant principal offered her the role of head coach for the school’s program. With a background in special education, she accepted the opportunity, and her Special Olympics journey quickly took off. As Nowal recalls, “Before I could even blink, we were being awarded a National Banner and representing Illinois in Washington, D.C. for Capitol Hill Day!”
Today, Nowal teaches in the life skills and self-contained program known as ULTIMA at Victor J. Andrew High School. In addition to coaching, she serves on the Education Leaders Network, where she works alongside fellow coaches, Special Olympics Illinois advocates, and staff to help advance Unified initiatives throughout the state.
A self-described “huge advocate for Unified sports programming,” Nowal is passionate about helping spread the word about Unified sports and supporting efforts that strengthen opportunities for athletes and partners. She values the opportunity to work with others who are dedicated to helping programs continue to grow and improve. Her favorite part of the ELN, she says, is “getting to be a learner throughout the process.” Although she is still relatively new to Special Olympics Illinois, she says the committee has been “so welcoming” and provides a space where she can “truly share, be myself, and learn from the other incredible members.”
While her focus is primarily on the ELN and her teams at Andrew High School, Nowal remains involved year-round through Unified sports seasons. She also proudly supports Andrew’s Unified pair who represent the school on the Unified Generation Committee.
When asked what inclusion means to her, Nowal said, “Inclusion means creating an environment where every individual is truly valued and celebrated.” She believes inclusion is “a focus on abilities, potential, community, and connection” and, through teaching and coaching, sees it as “a lived experience where everyone belongs.”
Through her work in the classroom, on the field, and through the Education Leaders Network, Nowal continues to help build more inclusive communities for students throughout Illinois.
Thank you, Nowal, for being the #SOILLDifference!