Joy Pryor
“Transforming education through empathy, equity, and courageous leadership.”
Joy Pryor is a passionate educator, curriculum specialist, and educational consultant with over 15 years of experience transforming learning spaces across Chicago. As a Curriculum Specialist and Teacher for Noble Schools and an Educational Consultant with The Opportunity Trust, she creates equitable, engaging learning experiences that nurture both academic and social-emotional growth.
Recognized as the 2025 Teacher of the Year, Joy’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She served on the Illinois State Board of Education Standards and ACT Committees, helping shape statewide educational priorities, and designed a Restorative Justice curriculum now implemented across 17 schools, promoting belonging, empathy, and community-centered learning.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration, a micro-credential in Social Emotional Learning from DePaul University, and is currently pursuing her Principal Licensure and a second Master’s in Special Education.
Grounded in purpose and fueled by love, Joy continues to empower educators and students to see their worth, embrace their voice, and lead with confidence.
• Diverse Leadrship Fellow
• Alpha Lambda Epsilon
• Student Educator Association
• National Educator Association
What do you attribute your success to?
"I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and purpose. My journey has been guided by the unwavering love and support of my parents and my three daughters, who continually remind me of the power of resilience and grace. I believe education is both a calling and a form of service—an opportunity to inspire, uplift, and create access for others. Success, to me, isn’t defined by titles or accolades, but by the lives you impact, the voices you amplify, and the hope you help restore. Every challenge has strengthened my resolve to lead with empathy, integrity, and heart."
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
"The best career advice I’ve ever received is to find what you’re passionate about—because when you do, it never truly feels like work. That wisdom has guided every step of my journey. When your purpose aligns with your passion, you give more, grow more, and create impact that lasts well beyond your role or title."
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
“Trust yourself, lean on your faith, and step boldly into every opportunity. God has already equipped you for the spaces you’re called to enter.”
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
"One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is ensuring equitable access to resources. At the same time, this also presents a major opportunity—to create more inclusive systems, bridge gaps, and build a stronger, more balanced foundation for growth and innovation."
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
"The values that matter most to me—both professionally and personally—are integrity, transparency, consistency, family, and relationship building. I believe in being honest and dependable, fostering meaningful connections, and staying grounded in the people and principles that matter most."
Locations
Noble Schools
Chicago, IL 60628