The atmosphere of classrooms and other spaces around EHS fills new assistant principal of academics Karen Hughes with a sense of learning coming to life and a feeling of joy seeing students engaged during class time. EHS classrooms provide a big part in making learning feel magical and the educators are an add on to keeping students engaged. This has helped her support families and students directly and efficiently through communication.
Hughes described her job as the best of both worlds, being able to support students, families, and teachers while also being able to advocate for the best education at EHS. She wants everyone to feel welcome and to have a vital role when they are here, including creating opportunities that support them coming to school.
“As a life-long learner and educator,” Hughes said. “My job gives me a vantage point to see the whole school, and I want to make sure everyone understands the vital role they play in creating opportunities here.”
“But I also get to focus on the big picture: advocating for, developing, and organizing our rich, diverse curriculum and instructional methods,” Hughes said. “Focusing on the big picture shows a great point of view on development and methods that are used here.”
“Honestly, being in the classrooms and seeing our EHS educators bring learning to life—seeing the students engaged—that’s what I love the most.”
Hughes previously worked at Milton Public Schools with multilingual learners and their families. As a first generation college student, she was motivated to make learning comfortable for everyone.
“We are all motivated when we can see ourselves in the lessons and can tie our academics to our future plans,” Hughes said. “The best motivation is providing real-world experiences in our classrooms that enable students to see how their learning will further their goals. Every student deserves to have all the opportunities EHS offers.”
In addition to student motivation, Hughes is motivated by those around her. She feels truly fortunate to be here because the EHS staff goes above and beyond for their students, and she noted that she’s never felt as much energy and pride as she has here in Everett.
“Our food service staff greet me with a smile every morning—from Bob with the deliveries to Stacy making those special homemade salads,” Hughes said. “Our incredible custodians ensure we have clean tables for all five lunches and gleaming classrooms every morning.”
Hughes received her CAGS at Curry College and also holds a masters degree in instructional leadership. Outside of school her two dogs Teddy and Miley are a part of her support system. She hopes to train Miley to be a therapy dog one day.
