Welcome

Dr. Sheila Hughes is excited to begin her first year as principal of Locust Grove Elementary School and her fourteenth year serving students, families, and staff in the Red Lion Area School District. Prior to joining the Locust Grove community, Dr. Hughes served as principal of North Hopewell-Winterstown Elementary for five years, as well as principal of Windsor Manor Elementary and Clearview Elementary. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to fostering a school culture where every child feels valued, supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Dr. Hughes earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary and Special Education and her Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Bloomsburg University. She began her educational career as a special education teacher at both the elementary and middle school levels before moving into school leadership. She later earned her Principal and Supervisory of Special Education certifications from Shippensburg University and completed her Reading Specialist certification. In 2025, Dr. Hughes earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University, where her research focused on principal self-efficacy and teacher retention.

As an educational leader, Dr. Hughes believes that strong relationships are the foundation of a successful school community. She values collaboration with students, families, staff, and community members and is passionate about creating engaging learning experiences that help all children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Dr. Hughes and her husband, John, have been married for 19 years and reside in the Red Lion Area School District with their daughters, Reagan (10) and Reese (9). Outside of school, Dr. Hughes enjoys reading, traveling, and giving back through youth sports. She can often be found cheering on her daughters at gymnastics meets and lacrosse games or coaching young athletes.

Should you have any questions or concerns during the school year, please reach out via email at [email protected] or by phone at 717-757-2559. Dr. Hughes is honored to join the Locust Grove family and looks forward to partnering with students, families, and staff to make the 2026-2027 school year an outstanding one.