By rdnewsNOW staff

long-time principal and educator moving on

Hughes retiring from St. Dominic Catholic High School

May 18, 2021 | 4:23 PM

Patrick Hughes, Principal of St. Dominic Catholic High School will be retiring this June after 29 years with Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools and over 30 years in education.

Hughes started in the Grade 4 classroom at St. Matthew Catholic School and continued teaching various grade levels until St. Dominic Catholic High School opened in September 2005.

Over the years, Hughes has taught many high school subjects, with a focus on Chemistry and Physics. He also coached many sports including badminton, volleyball and basketball. For roughly 10 years, Hughes has been in a school administration role at St. Dominic Catholic High School. This includes two years as an assistant principal and the last eight years as principal.

Hughes was involved in implementing a blended learning program at St. Dominic Catholic High School, which was part of his acceptance of Alberta Education’s “high school redesign” initiative. Hughes believed strongly in offering students flexibility in their learning and the ability to fast-track. This has been successful, for student enrollment has increased 32% and a consistent over 90% graduate rate has occurred under his leadership at St. Dominic Catholic High School.

“As a principal in a Catholic school, my goal is to guide teachers in their journey in becoming the best possible version of themselves while providing continuous opportunities for them to build a stronger relationship with Christ,” said Hughes.

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Hughes also focused his attention on student programming that enhanced methodology and pedagogy to meet the needs of students.

“By supporting my staff, students are better able to achieve the goals of education,” he said.

Hughes’ favourite memories are the grad service projects where students chose a non-profit organization to support in their final year of high school. In the past, this has included the Women’s Shelter, the local Food Bank, Chalice, the Central Alberta Humane Society and much more.

“We are thankful for the Catholic leadership Pat Hughes has provided to St. Dominic Catholic School. Pat is a faith filled leader who leads his school with a student-centred approach. He works collaboratively alongside students, staff and families to ensure a strong educational program is offered. Pat is a master teacher who loves teaching. This is evident in his innovative approach to offering a variety of programs within St. Dominic Catholic School,” said Superintendent Kathleen Finnigan at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools.

Hughes has also been very involved in the Rocky Mountain House community over the past 15 years coaching hockey, baseball and soccer. In his retirement, Hughes hopes to volunteer and give back to the Rocky Mountain House community. In addition, he plans to enjoy the mountains by hiking and other outdoor activities.