Matt Horen

High School Assistant Principal
Matt.Horen@swantonschools.org

Welcome to another wonderful school year, Swanton families!

My name is Nicolette Starks and I am thrilled to be joining Swanton High School to serve as your Assistant Principal. I am confident that, in partnership with Mr. Menna, this is going to be our best year yet at Swanton High School!

As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, my educational background includes a Bachelor’s in AYA Integrated Language Arts Education (grades 7-12) from Lourdes University as well as a Masters in Educational Leadership and Administration also from Lourdes University. Go Gray Wolves!

I am blessed to be entering into my 16th year in K-12 education, and while this career has offered me some of life’s biggest challenges, the last 16 years in this field have only deepened my passion for education as a whole. There is truly no greater work to be done than through the development of our youth into their absolute best selves! I began my career teaching 9th grade ELA in Detroit, MI and continued to develop my talents as a teacher over the next several years as I gained experience teaching 8th & 9th grade ELA in schools throughout Detroit and then East Toledo. Throughout my 9 year journey in school leadership, I have served within the roles of Instructional Coach, K-8 Dean, K-8 Principal, High School Assistant Principal, and High School Principal. Throughout these roles, I have had the opportunity to mentor and coach teachers, serve on curriculum writing teams, implement anti-bullying/social emotional health programs, develop student leadership programs, and so much more!  Now, I am ecstatic to be afforded the opportunity to bring my experience and knowledge to the Swanton community. Here, I look forward to pouring into the success of each and every student who sets foot in our halls as we prepare them to become men and women who thrive professionally, mentally, emotionally, and relationally within the community at large.

Personally, I am the very proud mother of two incredible daughters! My eldest, Ava, will be 19 in September and is studying at the University of Cincinnati on a pre-law track. My youngest, Gianna (Gigi), will be turning 2 in August and her spicy little personality keeps us on our toes for sure! My husband James works in local media as a news anchor and together, we stay very active within the 419 community. I love a good book that challenges my understanding and way of thinking, and am always looking for opportunities around town to get outside, stay active, and to support local businesses! I am absolutely elated to make Swanton High School my new home and I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you! 

Please feel free to reach out to me for anything at all, as I am just a quick phone call or email away. I look forward to partnering with our incredibly talented staff and dedicated families to continue the long standing legacy of success that Swanton High School has created.

With Gratitude,

Nicolette Starks

High School Assistant Principal 

Swanton Local School District