Hicks recognized by White County Schools

"White County Schools is proud to announce Mrs. Shauna Hicks as the Principal of the Year, highlight her strong leadership and extensive experience,” White County’s Director of School Kurt Dronebarger announced Monday. “The nomination and award celebrate Principal Hicks' dedication to the school community and her efforts in fostering a positive and effective learning environment.” 

Hicks has been principal at Cassville Elementary School since 2022, but that wasn’t the start of her service to White County’s students. Prior to taking the position as principal, Hicks spent 11 years at White County Middle School as a math and, later, a related arts teacher. 

Under Hicks's guidance, Cassville Elementary has earned recognition as a “Reward School” by the Tennessee Department of Education for outstanding student performance. Additionally, the school received a Grade A on the state report card. 

“The main reason that I am worth honoring is because of all the amazing things coming from my school, which is because of the people in it,” Hicks said. “Our building is well kept and maintained. My cafeteria is a joyful place to be. We are protected and safe. My front office is pure sunshine. When you walk my hallways, teachers are up in front of students, staying late and coming in early. My assistants are constantly doing things for others. The students are diligently working daily. These are the top reasons we have been a reward school four of the last five years and earned a Grade A on the state report card.” 

Hicks went on to say she was honored to receive the Principal of the Year award, but that she couldn’t have done it without not only the people in her school, but her peers around the county who have gone out of their way to ensure she – and her school – have been successful. 

“The fact that my nomination came from my peers and supervisors makes this recognition even more special,” Hicks said. “They deserve just as much praise as I do. They have all spent the last three-and-a-half years answering my calls, giving me advice and helping guide me as I stepped into administration.”