Mr. Hughes was a huge influence in my teaching career. As I embarked as a teacher in my early years, I always knew that I wanted to teach at LM. Little did I know that I would soon be working with someone whose influence would surpass anything I could have imagined. I was fortunate enough to start my high school teaching career at LM under the guidance of Mr. Hughes. In fact, he was the person that hired me, and he always made me feel supported and welcome as a new teacher.
Over the years, I got to know Mr. Hughes in many different capacities. Mr. Hughes was my mentor and often gave me valuable guidance on teaching. Beyond the classroom, he shared my love of sports and soccer and was invested in my success as a coach. He would always ask me about the soccer team and how it was doing. He was always the first to congratulate us on an important win and to give his kind words of support after a tough loss.
Mr. Hughes loved this high school, its students, and being here every day. I knew him from an athletic standpoint, because we often worked out in the gym in the mornings. It was during those hours that I learned so much about teaching and new educational trends, local sports, his love for his family and his children’s sports, and his personal love of teaching and history.
I wouldn’t be the teacher or person I am today without Mr. Hughes. He taught me so much, not just about teaching, but also about life. He cared very much, and he would always listen to my questions and would share his wisdom with me. Mr. Hughes made me a better teacher and person, and I know that he had this same influence on everyone in his life. He was a tremendous person and I will miss him dearly. I know his legacy will undoubtedly influence these halls and the people he interacted with for years to come.