I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mrs. Hughes, who is one of the new teachers here at New Castle. Mrs. Hughes was also a field student at New Castle briefly in 2020. Then, she student taught at Shenango High School from August-November of 2020. From January to June of 2021, she was a long-term substitute at Lincoln High School in Ellwood City. 

 Q: What made you decide to become a teacher?

A: When I was in college, I started teaching horseback riding lessons as a way to make extra money throughout school. I had several of my student’s parents tell me that I was a natural teacher. It made me think, “If I love teaching horseback riding lessons, I should teach one of my other passions – Science!” I took a few education classes and fell in love with them! I wouldn’t want to do anything else!  

 Q: Why did you decide to teach at NCASD?

A: I grew up in Laurel (which is only about 10 minutes from New Castle), so New Castle is close to my heart! I was excited to teach locally and hopefully impact the lives of the students around this area. 

Q: What did you major in?

A: I majored in Biology as an undergraduate and then I obtained my Master’s Degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Math & Science. 

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: I have been horseback riding since I was 5 years old. I own my own horse named Rooster. It is more of a passion than a hobby! I also love to hike, kayak, or do anything outdoors! 

Q: What do you enjoy most about teaching?

A: My favorite part of teaching is sparking my students’ curiosity and watching those “light bulbs” go off when a student understands something for the first time. I love teaching my students about the way the natural world works around them! 

Q: Where did you go to school?

A: I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Westminster College and my Master’s Degree from Slippery Rock University. 

Q: What was your first job?

A: My first job was a sales associate at Bath and Body Works!

Q: What is your teaching philosophy?

A: My teaching philosophy is EVERYONE deserves rich opportunities for education. Biology is a part of everyday life and anyone can be a scientist! I want to spark curiosity and an appreciation for nature in my students. I want them to develop a passion for Science. 

Thank you for the wonderful answers, Mrs. Hughes. We hope you have a wonderful school year. We looked forward to hearing about your first year at NCASD.