BLIND TO LIMITATION

Born in Brooklyn and later moving to Walden, NY, Jim Hughes is the youngest of five children in his family. He and his brother, along with their mother, are completely blind, while two of his other siblings are legally blind.

Jim's personal experiences with blindness have profoundly shaped his understanding of the world.

In 2004, he married his wife Diana, and together they built a family and live in Farmdale, NY.

Jim's academic journey began at Binghamton University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in History from 1986 to 1990 and followed up with a Master’s degree in History and Education between 1990 and 1992.

He recalls a conversation with his college counselor where he told her he was interested in teaching, but not in a school for the blind. "I want to teach in a public school", he proclaimed. "No, you can't do that", she replied. "Uh... I believe I can" said Jim.

It wasn't easy finding a school that was interested in giving him an interview, but eventually the headmaster at Farmingdale High School gave Jim his shot in 1992, and since then, the headmaster says, Jim has made "all the impact in the world, instructing and inspiring generations of students" in US History, Government Economics, and Mock Trial.

His dedication extends beyond the classroom through his involvement in extracurricular activities like Ethics Bowl, Model UN, and Peer Mediation.

His students have more than an undivided admiration and respect for their teacher. They say "It doesn't affect his teaching at all. It almost helps him". Another student says "He became so good a verbalizing the information to the students. It's some of the other teachers who can't always see". Another says, "There's no cheating whatsoever. We respect him too much."

For the past 19 years, he has also played a vital role as a union representative and officer, advocating for his colleagues and contributing to the school community.

Jim Hughes' story is a testament to embracing life's challenges with acceptance and grace, offering a unique perspective that enriches his teaching and leadership.