Meet Our Assistant Principals

Mr. Canupp

I am looking forward to working with this awesome faculty and staff at West Jackson Elementary School for the ninth year. Educationally, I received a BS in Biology, my teaching certificate, and a Master’s Degree in Education from North Georgia College. I earned a Specialist’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University. I taught eighth-grade science and social studies in Hall County before moving to Jackson County. This is my 27th year in education, and I have spent eighteen of those years in the Jackson County School System in a variety of administrative capacities at various levels and schools. I currently have the wonderful opportunity to serve as one of the Assistant Principals at WJES.

In 2015, West Jackson Elementary School started as a collaboration of two schools but has melded into ONE fantastic school where we focus on our students in the present, while preparing them for the future as lifelong learners. We will continue to rise to high expectations as we continue the story of WJES. Providing academic rigor, developing problem solvers through a STEAM lens, and making sure we are building strong relationships will always be our focus. Our goal is to create life-long learners by allowing students to have a voice in their academic search.

I will always believe that THIS SCHOOL BELONGS TO ALL OF US! We value the community’s input and will strive to build and foster positive relationships, which in turn will allow us to put our students first. If I can ever be of service to you, please do not hesitate to contact me by phone (706-654-2044) or by email (jcanupp@jcss.us).

Sincerely,

John Canupp

Dr. Matthews

Welcome back WJES! I am so excited about this upcoming school year!

My name is Nicole Matthews and I am thrilled to serve as Assistant Principal at WJES. My family and I joined the Jackson County community in 2014. My husband and I have two wonderful daughters who attend Jackson County Schools. 

I have been blessed to serve and work with students and families in education for 16 years. I spent eight years in Gwinnett County and 8 years here at WJES! I’m so fortunate to have worked as a first grade teacher, Third grade teacher, ESOL teacher, Early Intervention Teacher, Instructional Coach, and now an Assistant Principal. 

I take an immense amount of pride in working at WJES. We are blessed with the most amazing students and staff. West Jackson is an amazing family strong school where we believe in engaging students in real world, hands-on learning experiences through a STEAM approach. 

I look forward to partnering with you this school year to best support your child. Please reach out to me at ematthews@jcss.us.

Sincerely, 

Nicole Matthews