LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Joyce Hughes

Position: Retiring Sixth Grade Teacher
School: Singing River Academy
School District: Pascagoula-Gautier School District
City, State: Gautier, MS

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Music that Describes Joyce

Joyce Hughes was nominated by her colleague, Jana Knight.

"What can I say about Joyce that would correctly convey her influence and success as an educator? When I met her several years ago, she took me under her wing as a new teacher at her school and welcomed me with open arms," said Knight. "She always had a kind word, a story, or some sort of encouragement."

Known as "Granny Gator" to several students, Ms. Hughes was the grandmother you could only dream of having. She always did all she could to help her students, from spending her planning block to help tutor, to buying things her students needed out of her own pocket, to jumping in with the younger teachers to help create magical lessons across the classrooms. Ms. Hughes has always gone over and beyond.

"This is her 48th year in education. 48 years! Thinking of all of the students she has reached and taught during that time is astounding," said Knight. "I can't imagine how many hard years she must have had during that time where she thought about leaving education. How many times she questioned if she was in the right place. How many times she saw the proverbial light bulb go off. She has taught through some of the greatest historical moments and is ending her career during a pandemic. Joyce always said she would go out with a bang, and I can't think of a bigger bang than during a pandemic after almost five decades in education. Joyce is a wonderful coworker, colleague, motivator, cheerleader, leader, neighbor, but most importantly, friend. I am thankful for the four years I was able to work with her, and I hope she enjoys her retirement. She deserves it more than anyone!"

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Comments (3)

Christy Sharp Posted over a year ago

Ms. Hughes has dedicated her life to teaching children. Those children have grown into compassionate, loving adults in many instances. Her commitment to the field of education, ability to teach multiple subjects and ongoing pursuit as a lifelong learner has served her well, as well as the children and families she has touched. Even as a seasoned educator, Ms. Hughes embraced digital learning during the pandemic. Technology can be a challenge to some veteran teachers, but she soared in her teaching practice. We wish her many blessings in her retirement and all the happiness in the world. Love and Light, Your SRA School Family

Briley Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Hughes, I learned a great deal from you in our time teaching together. I was a young teacher at the time, but you helped me gain a wealth of knowledge. Thank you for always offering help and advice to me, other colleagues, and students. Enjoy your retirement! You have rated it. Briley

Kelly Cannan Posted over a year ago

I have had the pleasure of teaching with Ms. Hughes for 12 years of my teaching career. She took me under her wing and I learned how to love my students just the way she loves her students. I wish Ms. Hughes the best of luck.