Nicole Laborte is completed her Ph.D. in Music Education at the University of North Texas. Her research interests include AI applications in music education, the impact of social media on the profession, and how teachers show care through digital communication. 

In May 2020, she completed her Master of Science in Learning Technologies through the accelerated online program at University of North Texas, graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors. Nicole has presented practitioner, poster, and research sessions for WMEA, TMEA, NAfME All-Northwest, and NAfME National conferences. 

Prior to moving to Texas, Nicole taught 6-12 orchestra, 6-8 choir, and 6-8 band in Enumclaw School District in Washington state. While in Enumclaw, her ensembles received Superior ratings at large group regional festivals and solo and ensemble contests. Under her direction, the Enumclaw High School Symphonic Orchestra was selected to perform for the 2020 WMEA Conference Concert Hour. 

Nicole graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in December 2014 with a Bachelor in Music Education. While at PLU, Nicole was an active member of both the orchestral and choral programs, serving as a student conductor and orchestra librarian. Her primary instruments are voice and violin. 

When not relaxing with her cat, Bella, Nicole spends her "free" time on stage or in the pit for local community theatre organizations. She is an avid reader of YA fantasy fiction and loves any excuse to bust out in showtunes and early 2000s punk pop jams.