School counselor Chrissy Hughes is described as the busiest person at Haughton Elementary. Not a day goes by that she isn’t advocating for students and supporting teachers – always putting others first with kindness, compassion and genuine care. She wears many other hats, too; so many that even Hughes may not even realize how much she does, but others do.
“Our motto at Haughton Elementary School this school year is ‘Making Magic Happen,’ and (Mrs.) Hughes does just that!” exclaimed Lara Joyce. “As our good friend Dolly Parton once said, ‘The magic is inside you, there ain’t no crystal ball!’ Without Mrs. Hughes making magic happen daily here at HES, we would most certainly need a crystal ball.”
“She truly embodies what it means to be an exceptional educator and advocate for children,” added Kristina Shaw. “Our school is a better place because of Mrs. Hughes. Her dedication, kindness, work ethic and willingness to go the extra mile make an immeasurable impact on the lives of our students. She may not always realize how much she does, but those of us who work alongside her see it every day.”
Hughes’ journey with Bossier Schools began 25 years ago in the classroom at Benton Elementary, where she taught K-3 Reading Enrichment and fourth grade before stepping into the role as school counselor. From there, her trajectory would take her to T.L. Rodes Elementary before making the move to Haughton Elementary. Her years in the classroom and perspective gained along the way is what Hughes credits for helping shape the counselor she is today.
“They gave me an understanding of the challenges students and teachers face and the importance of strong relationships with families,” Hughes explained. “As a counselor, I have the opportunity to bring those experiences together to help children build confidence, overcome challenges, and develop the skills they need to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Throughout each chapter of my career, my purpose has remained the same; to help students feel seen, supported, and capable of success.”
Building relationships is what Hughes loves most about her role. She believes strongly in taking the time to understand a child’s perspective so she can support their individual needs and help them recognize their own worth and potential.
“The most gratifying moments are often the small ones: seeing a student proudly celebrate a goal, watching a child gain the confidence to try again, or knowing that a conversation helped someone feel safe and understood,” Hughes shared. “Progress looks different for every child, and being part of that growth is incredibly meaningful.”
Even outside of school hours, the counselor hat never comes completely off. When Hughes is not cheering on her own three children in their endeavors or camping with her family, she is
listening to counseling podcasts.
It is that dedication that earned Hughes multiple nominations for Bossier Schools’ Gold Star employee award. Thunderous applause echoed throughout the HES gymnasium at a surprise assembly as her name was announced as the recipient for October. From a Golden Tornado cheerleader in her hometown of Haynesville, Louisiana, to the honor of being named Bossier Schools’ Gold Star – Hughes does not take it lightly that she is being celebrated as every little Buccaneer’s cheerleader.
“My hope is that students will remember how I made them feel: heard, valued, and worthy of someone’s time and care,” Hughes said. “Being trusted to play that part in a child’s life is a privilege I will never take for granted.”
Editor’s note: Know someone who works for Bossier Schools that is deserving of recognition for going above and beyond? Nominate them for the Gold Star award, proudly sponsored for the 14th year by Bossier Federal Credit Union. Visit https://bit.ly/GoldStarForm to tell what sets them apart and be watching for our next Gold Star surprise.