Principal's Corner

Peter McHugh began his career with the New York City Department of Education in 2000. Prior to joining the team at the Marie Curie Middle School, he served as the Climate and Culture Manager with the Queens North Borough Office. It was in this role that he provided DOE staff with a number of professional learning opportunities. Two examples are Therapeutic Crisis Intervention in Schools and Restorative Practices. A strong advocate of student voice, Peter also facilitated the Borough Student Advisory Council (BSAC). This work involved providing student representatives with leadership training and experiences while they developed plans of action to address the needs of all of our students. He has also played critical roles in supporting all of the school communities which include our own District 26, as well as Districts 24, 25 and 30.

Peter attended Queens College for all of his post-secondary studies. After earning his Bachelor’s Degree in 2000, he began his graduate course work while serving the students of NYC as a Social Studies Teacher here in Queens. Attending evening classes, he earned his Master’s Degree in Social Studies Education, Cum Laude, in 2004. Being a lifelong learner, Peter decided to continue with his graduate work and earned a second Master’s Degree, this time in School Administration and Supervision, Magna Cum Laude, in 2007.

As a teacher, Peter demonstrated proficiency in providing his students with high quality, rigorous and differentiated instruction. As a New York City educator, Peter participated in New York and the World, a forum devoted to providing students with an in depth and global view of World History. This in addition to participating in the American Social History Project that focused on a deep dive into American History that combined historical documents and literature to provide students with multiple viewpoints on historic events. He was also provided with additional opportunities to serve his school community as a Dean, a UFT Chapter Leader, and by writing curricula to improve student outcomes. These experiences helped prepare him for a role as an Assistant Principal. In this capacity, Peter took on new challenges, such as leading academic departments, giving feedback to staff and supporting the needs of his students, including working to provide a safe and supportive environment.

Peter is a dedicated educator focused on addressing the needs of each individual student, and providing them with the means they require to find success. He is a firm believer that all students should be provided with multiple access points to achieve their educational goals. A life-long learner himself, Peter knows the value of expanding educational opportunities and creating school and community partnerships to benefit all students. A former resident of District 26, he has a great deal of affection for, and knowledge of our community. He is excited by the opportunity to serve the families of M.S. 158 as their new Principal.