Get To Know: Nicholas Gicking

Name: Nicholas Gicking

Position: Upper School Social Studies Teacher

How long have you been at Oakbrook: I just completed my second year at Oakbrook.

How do you like to spend your free time: Outside of the classroom, I love to read historical non-fiction books, volunteer for various political campaigns, and play with my two small dogs!

What do you love most about teaching: I love when a struggling student has his or her "light bulb" moment when facing a difficult concept; I also love hearing students talk about something they learned in class with each other in the hallway. When children learn at a deeper level and gain an appreciation for history, I find the utmost joy!

What do you love most about working at Oakbrook: Oakbrook allows me to teach without being boxed into a particular teaching method; I can assist every child by truly advocating for their best interests. Instead of "teaching to the test," I can truly nurture a child's academic and spiritual needs along with his or her parents, the primary educators. I also love that I can pray with my students during the school days, and lead them to be unwavering disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ in our turbulent, uncertain world. Also, I work alongside the best colleagues in the United States; their commitment to their craft, their students, and their witness to the Lord inspires me to become a better Christian and teacher every day.