Jason Hughes
West Virginia Teacher of the Year
St. Marys High School, St Marys, WV
First grade, all subjects

My teaching philosophy
I believe that all students can learn and find their passion in life. As a teacher it is my role to guide my students through their education. I want students to learn the following: to think for themselves, where to find information, problem solving, and how to relate with others. If I provide my students with a diversity of educational activities then I believe that they will find something that they are passionate about.

My philosophy in action
If students are to find their passion in life, they must be exposed to as many educational activities as possible. My teaching style involves a diversity of educational activities. My students learn in the classroom and in lab settings. Students are involved in leadership activities by serving on committees and holding offices in the FFA. Students compete in state and national academic competition such as Canon Envirothon. Students conduct projects at home applying what they learned in school and making money in the process. Students get the opportunity to take field trips in the state and across the country. I believe that through the many activities that they are exposed to, many students find their passion in life.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
My greatest teaching accomplishment is influencing my students to become teachers. Three of my former students are currently teaching Agricultural Science in West Virginia.

The most critical issues facing educators today
The most critical issue facing educators today is the pressure of a negative public perception of educators and education.

Ways to resolve this issue
Teachers must become pro-active in an effort to reverse the negative public perception of educators and education. Teachers must market themselves and what they do. Teachers need to make sure that unique and positive publicity is put in the newspaper and on TV about their classroom activities. Teachers need to conduct a community "open house" to showcase the efforts of the students and to explain the curriculum. Teachers need to include parents in as many activities as possible. Teachers need to include business and industry from the community in as many activities as possible. The more positive that people experience in education, the less negative they will feel.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
Teachers still make a difference in the lives of young people. Students need us to teach them, but they also need us to care about them. Care for your students and they will perform and behave in a more outstanding way.

One lesson every student should learn
Every student should learn how to work with others. We need to be careful in education to not just teach facts from books. Students need to interact with others and learn skill in leadership and teamwork.

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