University News

Just Hired: Ashley Bradley

July 16, 2026

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MACOMB, IL -- Meet Ashley Bradley, a Special Education graduate who now teaches at Pikeland School District.

Bradley was already serving as a paraprofessional in the district when she returned to Western Illinois University to earn her Special Education degree. She began teaching in her own classroom two years before graduating, making the transition into a full-time teaching role a natural fit for both her and the district.

During her time at WIU, Bradley said her coursework prepared her to meet the diverse needs of students by exposing her to situations and perspectives beyond those she had previously experienced.

"The diversity in my field was shared during my studies," Bradley said. "I teach in a small town, so having access to recognize situations or needs that I hadn't been exposed to yet was crucial."

Bradley plans to remain connected to WIU by returning for campus events, including the Macomb Holiday Tournament with the cheer team she coaches. She also hopes to visit campus with her two young sons, who have already set their sights on becoming Leathernecks.

"WIU forever has a special place in my heart," Bradley said.

For more information on WIU's Special Education program, visit wiu.edu/education. To share your hiring story, visit forms.gle/9fiZQAGZs8X2Vbjk7.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing