HUDSON— After 26 years of teaching mathematics at Hudson High School, Donna Mongeau is preparing to close one chapter of her life and begin another centered on family, hobbies and personal growth.
Before entering education, Mongeau worked in accounting at several firms, including one owned by her father. Though her career path eventually shifted to teaching, she said she found her passion in helping students grow both academically and personally.
Throughout her career at Hudson High, Mongeau taught a variety of mathematics courses, including geometry and pre-calculus, and also served as co-advisor of the school’s math team.
She said her favorite part of teaching was helping students discover confidence in themselves. She especially enjoyed motivating students who had strong potential but struggled to stay focused or driven, calling their eventual success one of her proudest accomplishments.
“I try my best to encourage them, because I know they have the potential but they are not trying as hard as they should,” Mongeau said.
Over the years, Mongeau formed lasting relationships with students and colleagues alike. One memory that stands out came during the 2015-2016 school year, when her students surprised her with a collection of her well-known classroom sayings and “famous quotes.”
It was those everyday interactions with students and coworkers, she said, that made her experience at Hudson High so meaningful and made it difficult to say goodbye at the end of each school year.
“It’s just one of those heartfelt moments that makes the year memorable,” Mongeau said.
As retirement begins, Mongeau said she looks forward to spending more time outdoors and rediscovering hobbies she set aside during her teaching career. She plans to focus on rock climbing, playing the piano and spending quality time with family. She also hopes to eventually pursue a part-time job outside the field of education.
“I would like to focus on something different, maybe work at an animal shelter,” she said.
Mongeau offered one final piece of advice for her students as she prepares to leave the classroom behind.
“Don’t let preconceived expectations limit you, because everything changes,” she said. “Avoid getting stuck on just one mindset and always keep learning because it’s a lifelong endeavor.”
