Leadership

Originally from Lake Charles, Dr. Winey has over 20 years of experience in education. She began teaching in Ascension Parish in 2005 as a kindergarten teacher at Duplessis Primary. She was named Teacher of the Year at Duplessis in 2009. After teaching a couple of years at Dutchtown Primary, Dr. Winey returned to Duplessis as an instructional coach. In 2014, she moved to Gonzales Primary, where she served as a mentor teacher, master teacher, and assistant principal.

"I am very humbled by the opportunity to lead in a different capacity in Ascension Parish. I am very thankful to Ascension Public Schools for giving me the opportunity to work in so many different leadership capacities. Because of my ability to do so, I feel as though they have prepared me to serve in my new role," said Dr. Winey. "I am very thankful, humbled, and honored to serve as the very first principal of Sugar Mill Primary School."

She earned a bachelor's degree from McNeese State University, a master's degree in educational leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University, and a reading specialist certification from Louisiana State University in Shreveport. A National Board Certified Teacher, Dr. Winey also earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University.

A message from Dr. Winey...

Welcome Knights to Sugar Mill Primary! We look forward to working with you and your child! We have an exciting year ahead of us. Instruction is our number one priority!

We are looking forward to a productive partnership with you to ensure our children can achieve their highest potential. We recognize that in order to be successful in school, our children need support from both the home and school. We know a strong partnership with you will make a great difference in your child’s education. As partners, we share the responsibility for our children’s success and want you to know that we will do our very best to carry out our responsibilities.

We ask that you guide and support your child’s learning by ensuring that he/she:

1) Attends school daily and arrives on time, ready for the day’s learning experience

2)Completes all homework assignments given by teachers

3) Reads daily to develop a love for reading and to improve literacy skills

4) Shares school experiences with you so that you are aware of his/her school life

5) Informs you if he/she needs additional support in any area or subject

6) Knows that you expect him/her to succeed in school.

Again, please remind your child of our behavior and academic expectations so that both students and teachers can work in a positive environment.  It is very important that you and your child are fully informed regarding the high standards we have set in place related to appropriate behavior for a safe and productive school year for all. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Freeman grew up in Baton Rouge but moved to Ascension Parish in 2002. Since starting her teaching career in her home city, Freeman has gone on to teach throughout Ascension's schools. Her experience includes Galvez Primary, Central Primary, Sorrento Primary, and Donaldsonville Primary. Freeman has also worked as a Mentor Teacher and, most recently, as a Master Teacher.

“I am honored to serve in this position,” said Freeman. “I promise to work hard with all stakeholders, especially the parents and community of Sugar Mill Primary, to make great things happen.”

Freeman earned a bachelor’s in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University.