Leadership

Principal

Dr. Shannon Nickens
Shannon.Nickens@tangischools.org
(985) 310 - 2152

Dear Jewel Sumner Middle School Parents and Guardians, 

I am delighted to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new principal of Sumner Middle School! I am thrilled to be joining such a dedicated staff and community that make Sumner Middle a great place for students to learn and grow.

Allow me to share a bit about myself. My name is Dr. Shannon Nickens, and I bring with me 24 years of experience in education, with a strong passion for academic excellence, personal growth, and a safe and inclusive learning environment.

My educational journey includes a Bachelor of Arts in Education, a Master’s in Education, a Master’s Degree plus 30 graduate hours, and a Educational Doctorate in Leadership all from Southeastern Louisiana University. I have served as a teacher, curriculum coach, technology specialist, assistant principal and coordinator of the virtual option within this parish.  Each of these experiences have provided me with valuable insights into the diverse needs of students, parents, and educators.

At Sumner Middle, my goal is to build upon and continue the existing culture of excellence and achievement, and to work collaboratively with our exceptional staff to provide an enriching educational experience for all students. I believe in fostering a positive and inclusive school culture that celebrates student success in all areas, promotes positive citizenship, and values the unique talents and contributions of every individual.

I firmly believe that open communication and collaboration are essential to student success, and I encourage parents and guardians to actively engage in their child’s education and participate in the vibrant school community at Jewel Sumner Middle. Throughout the school year, you can expect regular updates on important events, academic achievements, and extracurriculars through emails, our social media page, and updates on our school website. I also encourage you to attend school activities and functions, as your involvement is vital to the success of our students.

I am truly excited to embark on this journey with all of you and look forward to getting to know each and every one of our students and families. Please feel free to reach out to me at 985-415-2410 or  or shannon.nickens@tangischools.org if you have any questions, concerns, or simply want to introduce yourself.

I look forward to meeting everyone soon!  Proud to be a new cowboy!

Sincerely,

Shannon Nickens, Ed. D 
Principal, Jewel Sumner Middle School 

Assistant Principal

Selena Morgan

Selena.Morgan@tangischools.org

I am beyond excited to begin my 27th year at Jewel Sumner Middle School.  I look forward to working closely with our principal, teachers, the office, custodial, and food service staff, to provide your children with the best opportunity to learn and grow socially and emotionally as well as academically.

I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Special Education 1-12 in 1998. After raising my boys, I decided to further my education and received a Master’s degree from Arkansas State University in Educational Leadership and Technology in 2019. I have loved being an educator for 26 years!  My first three years I served out of the district. I taught seven years at Chesbrough Elementary and the last 16 at Jewel Sumner Middle where I have been a classroom teacher, served in leadership roles, club leaders, been a part of many committees, and now as the assistant principal. 

Outside of my education duties, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Benjie Morgan, my three sons and two grandsons. My hobbies include cooking, crafting and spending time camping on the river.

 Great schools are a result of great teachers and I look forward to a new year with the best staff of Jewel Sumner Middle School. Jewel Sumner Middle is truly a special place to be and I am so proud to be a cowboy!

Sincerely,
Selena Morgan
Assistant Principal, Jewel Sumner Middle School