Sumner County Schools

Two Sumner County Students Honored As Heroes

Lakeside Park Elementary students Brock and Brody Nickens were surprised this morning by Hendersonville Police Department, their school, and the man they rescued.

Brock, Brody, and their father Marshall Nickens were out driving around when one of the boys spotted a man badly injured. That man turned out to be Judge Dee David Gay.

"There is no telling how long I would have been there unseen, if these guys hadn't stopped to help," Judge Gay said as he spoke to students at Lakeside Park. "The lesson is never ever pass up somebody; talk about being good humans. It doesn't matter how busy you are, it doesn't matter what's going on in your life, if someone needs help, you help them. These guys are my heroes."

Judge Gay was involved in a serious bicycle accident and was unable to stand due to three broken bones. Due to the boys' quick actions, Judge Gay was able to get help.

This morning, Judge Gay surprised Brock and Brody's school with a special assembly. He spoke to students about the Good Samaritan and awarded Brock and Brody with the Good Samaritan award.

Hendersonville Police Chief, Jim Jones, presented the boys with the Outstanding Citizenship award and Sumner County Schools Director, Dr. Scott Langford, commended the boys for their courageous and noble actions.

"We are excited to celebrate the extraordinary bravery and compassion demonstrated by Brock and Brody Nickens who exemplify the values of kindness and selflessness," Director of Sumner County Schools, Dr. Scott Langford said. "Their quick thinking and willingness to help Judge Gay in his time of need showcase the best of our community. We are incredibly proud of their actions and the example they set for us all. Congratulations, Brock and Brody, on your well-deserved recognition as heroes."

Brock and Brody's parents, Marshall and Melissa Nickens, were in the audience for the celebration and are proud of both boys for their compassion and empathy they have for others.

"That is a trait that's hard to teach or train. It's inside of them, so it feels good as a parent that they are making good decisions," Marshall Nickens said.

Graduating Seniors,

Belmont Fast Forward has partnered with Volunteer State Community College and Sumner County Schools to boost access to summer college courses for May 2024 high school graduates. This initiative will provide funding before students’ Pell Grants, Tennessee Promise, or other aid are available in the fall. Belmont Fast Forward is providing funding and support for up to $60K in tuition and books for students to enroll in up to three career and technical courses (business, logistics, and computer applications) at Volunteer State Community College’s Gallatin campus. Check out the flyers for more details.

Belmont Fast Forward Information (PDF)

Belmont Fast Forward Dual Enrollment Courses (PDF)

 
Belmont Fast Forward Summer Offerings (PDF)

Belmont Fast Forward Summer Class Schedule (PDF)

Six Sumner County Schools Chosen by TVA for STEM Grants

Gallatin High School, Westmoreland High School, Liberty Creek High School, Portland West Middle, Liberty Creek Elementary, and Portland Gateview Elementary are six of 343 schools to be awarded a grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority. TVA, in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization, to develop science, technology, engineering, and math education programs for students that will inspire interest in STEM-related fields.

Citing specific projects or programs they hoped to implement, educators from across TVA’s seven-state region applied for grants of up to $5,000 each. Sumner County Schools received a combined $25,000.

"STEM grants empower multiple schools to fuel the engines of innovation, shaping future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics," Sumner County Schools STEM and Career and Technical Education Supervisor, Chase Moore, said. "We're grateful for our community partners like TVA whose support not only fosters academic excellence but also inspires a generation to push the boundaries of what's possible."

Schools who are awarded grants must receive their power from a local power company served by TVA.

The grants will be used to purchase multiple educational items including virtual reality equipment for aviation, a sublimation printing system, recording studio, robotics, coding and design. The money will also be used for a printing business and life skills apartment.

“TVA is committed to supporting schools and educators who are inspiring an interest in STEM education in students across the Valley, as we know our young people will design and build the energy systems of the future,” said Jeannette Mills, TVA executive vice president and chief external relations officer. “Providing resources and access to STEM education is key to inspiring innovation and we’re proud to contribute to the next generation’s visionaries.”

Since 2018, TVA and BVI have awarded nearly $6 million in STEM grants to support local education.

School Resource Officers Help Students Hit Their Mark

Gallatin High School SRO Jerry Soares and White House Middle School SRO Ryan Martin travelled with their schools' archery teams to the NASP TN state archery tournament held in Murfreesboro. The 3-day event drew over 2,000 student-archers from more than 90 schools across the state. As certified basic archery instructors, these SROs help coach their school teams. The Sumner County Sheriff's Office SRO Division is proud to continue its partnership with Sumner County Schools to make meaningful connections with our students both inside and outside the classroom!

Hendersonville High School also attended the competition. They are coached by Mr. Stephens and Mr. Averitt.