Hello,
Welcome to Frances Nungester Elementary School. My name is Shannon McCaskey. I am starting my tenth year as principal at FNES and my 24th year as a district employee. Before I became principal, I spent 14 years at Chestnut Grove Elementary school as a teacher. I am a graduate of the University of North Alabama, receiving my bachelor's, master's, and EdS.
I love Decatur as it has a special meaning to me. My grandmother was a custodian at Oak Park Middle School. I used to go to work with her during the summer. I knew at an early age that I wanted to be an educator. I am so thankful I can enjoy my career helping others.
I look forward to an exciting and blessed school year.
What do you love about your job?
I love the people I work alongside. I come to school every day to a very positive faculty and staff. They keep me laughing and smiling. The energy in this school is positive, the climate is positive, and the staff goes out of their way to make our children happy.
What personality traits do you contribute to your success?
Always be humble and grateful. Those two traits have allowed me to grow and be where I am today. It's not because of the higher education degrees I've earned, but instead that I was put in this position to serve and help others.
What is one thing most people don't know about you?
I'm a big Martin Lawrence fan. Every character is hilarious. He makes me laugh.
What best advice motivated you to become an educator/principal?
I had a mentor, Ms. Teague, who was the principal at Chestnut Grove Elementary School. She taught me in every decision you make, do it for the kids. I try to do everything for kids - from budgeting to hiring. I want people on my team that is positive and impactful to children.
What is one character trait you hope to instill in your students, and why?
Don't let your past determine your future. Growing up, I had many odds against coming from a single-parent family. I didn't let the odds go against me. I didn't let naysayers tell me what I could and couldn't do. I try to stay positive and keep a focus. I knew what I wanted to do in life. Here I am!
What would it have been if you could have chosen a job outside of education?
I love being around people and having a positive impact, so I probably would have been a nurse or a pediatric nurse. I like helping others. That was instilled in me by my grandmother.