South Walton Life caught up with Walton High School Principal Russell Hughes to discuss Hughes’ campaign for Walton County Superintendent of Schools. By all accounts, Mr. Hughes has had a stellar career here in Walton County, “coming up through the ranks” as teacher, coach & administrator.
There have been numerous awards along the way. Under his leadership, Walton Middle School was selected as one of the top 20 schools in the state, and was the first middle school in the county to make an “A” and achieve Adequate Yearly Progress in the same year.
In 2007, Hughes was assigned to Walton High School as principal. The school soon made significant academic progress. In his 8 years as principal, the high school has consistently ranked above average in Florida state. For the past two years WHS has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best high schools. In 2015 the school was again named as one of the 50 “most inspiring schools” in the country with only 2 from the State of Florida being so named. Undoubtedly, many county residents have heard these accolades before.
“I have known Russell Hughes for over 20 years and worked alongside him as a teacher and administrator. Even though many in South Walton may not know Russell, he is well respected by those who have worked with him in the classroom, community, and at the district level. They have witnessed first hand his integrity, passion and dedication to education. Russell seeks to raise the standard of education for all students across the county. He will accomplish this by doing what he does best, bringing stakeholders together from all walks of life to find solutions to current challenges and pursue new and innovative approaches in education.” says Cathy Brubaker, former Director of Seaside School.
We asked why he’s running for superintendent and why not stay as Walton High School Principal. Hughes responded, “I want to do for the 8,000 students of Walton County what I’m doing for the 800 at WHS. I know what it takes to progress and I’ve gained the trust and confidence from the community to work together as a team.” He said the key is to first create the “expectation of success” for all students. “No two children are alike and no two children perform at the same level. But all students can and will progress from their own individual level.” says Hughes.
Principal Hughes shared his vision of three essential pillars in the educational process. First, each student must be prepared for “commencement to community.” This means academically, socially and in citizenship. Secondly, “We believe in pressing and progressing. Every child, no matter the background or ability is being pressed to be better and every child is expected to progress.” Finally, Mr. Hughes believes in local control of education and understanding the effects of funded mandates and directives from the State and Federal government is paramount. “We must never subject our students to strategies and directives that are doomed to fail.”
On a personal note, Russell is a Republican and resides in DeFuniak Springs with his wife Lori. The couple have been married for over 20 years and have two children. Their daughter teaches Spanish in Paxton and their son has med school aspirations.
Author: SWal Life
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