Pioneer High School Class Principal Kevin Hudson grew up in Ann Arbor and attended Bryant Elementary and Scarlett Middle School before graduating from Huron High School in 1987. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, his Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Arts from Eastern Michigan University.
Kevin Hudson, what unique perspective do you bring to your role as a Pioneer Class Principal having been both a student and educator in the same district?
It is never too late to improve oneself. I was truly a mediocre student who did just enough to stay eligible in high school to learn to become an above-average student in college by hard work and studying my craft. It also kept me eligible in college.
What aspects of your experience as a student in AAPS influenced your decision to become an educator in this district?
I really didn’t consider education until I began to work as a recreational Instructor through the Community Recreation and Education Department and as a youth coordinator with the Peace Neighborhood Center when I was in college. At that point, I knew I could connect with young people who needed a little extra support.
Were there any challenges you faced as a student that you now work to address in your role as a Pioneer Class Principal?
As a student, I was fine doing just enough to get by because it is what kept me eligible to participate in Athletics. However, mediocre is just not good enough when you have a young person’s future in your hands. In education, competency is the name of the game. I treat our students the way I would want someone to treat my own children. My responses are not always favorable, but my hope is to bestow life lessons that will assist our students in becoming positive healthy productive citizens.
Can you name a memorable teacher from your time as a student who influenced your career path?
Mrs. Mary Jane Bricka was my fifth and sixth grade teacher and she was so nice. I had her twice. Mrs. Bricka truly saw my potential in that I was definitely not a perfect child. I was very mischievous and said how I felt without thinking about how others would feel. I still have the report card from the time Mrs. Bricka commented on how I was becoming more empathetic and making a concerted effort to minimize my mean/rude comments to others.
Can you recall a pivotal moment during your time as a student that reinforced your connection to AAPS?
My senior year at Ann Arbor Huron High School, when I won the Class A State Title in the mile relay. This moment truly made me feel as if I were representing the district amongst all other districts in the state of Michigan. By the way, that record still holds strong at Ann Arbor Huron High School!
What were your favorite subjects in high school?
Algebra and psychology.
Finish this sentence: Middle school was:
Intense.
Did you enjoy high school?
Absolutely, I would only make a few adjustments if I were given a million dollars to go back in time.
Did you take part in any high school pranks you can talk about?
Naw, that’s not my style. As far as I was concerned, I was too sophisticated!
How do the social dynamics and peer relationships among students today compare to your experiences?
All the same! The only differences are the technology. News (whether it be true or false) is more readily available because it’s in the palm of their hands (cell phones). It is easier to sell wolf tickets over social media, but many can’t back their mean words or threats. But attitudes and relationships are the same.
Do you have any advice for high school students looking ahead to graduation and beyond?
You and only you can control your destiny. You can’t allow your current bad situation to determine the rest of your life.
What was your favorite school tradition or event when you were a student, and does it still exist?
The Pioneer vs. Huron athletic events and fall registration—when you get to see all the friends you didn’t see during the summer.
Favorite cafeteria food:
Maybe that rectangular cardboard pizza.
What was your favorite grade and why?
Sixth (move to junior high school); ninth (move to high school), and twelfth (move to college). Because I have always been ready to transition to my next phase in life!
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