Andrea Hogan has had an inspiring journey, from being a former student in the School City of East Chicago Public Schools to becoming the principal of Washington Elementary School.
Hogan's roots in the city run deep – she went to Washington Elementary and is a part of East Chicago Central High School's inaugural class of 1987.
Her position as principal of Washington Elementary not only showcases her achievements but also shows the potential for success that exists within East Chicago Public Schools.
“I think the biggest impact that I have on my students is that they know that I care,” said Hogan. “I was born and raised in East Chicago. I walked those same halls at Washington Elementary, but I never knew that I would be walking these halls again with a different mindset and position. I'm a proud product of the School City of East Chicago.”
Hogan's journey serves not only as inspiration for students but also highlights the value of local talent and leadership in driving success.
“I share with my students that it's one thing to dream and another to be certain those dreams will come true,” said Hogan. “We have some who want to be NBA basketball players, lawyers, and doctors. I'm hoping one day some kid will want to be a principal, that they’ll remember that Mrs. Hogan became a principal, so I can do that, too. I love to instill in them that they can do whatever they put their minds to.”
Hogan embarked on her teaching career shortly after high school, and she credits the Kappa Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for playing a crucial role in launching her path.
“I became a teacher in 1999 as my heart was in education,” said Hogan. “Predominantly educators surround me as I belong to the Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. I worked in some of their classrooms as their care professional, and those ladies kept me grounded. I saw their successes and how sharp these ladies were, so I decided I wanted to continue with this. I went on to become an assistant principal for two years and then was promoted to principal in 2009. I've been at Washington Elementary ever since.”
Since Hogan assumed the role of principal at Washington Elementary, the school has made significant advancements in its academic curriculum.
“Washington Elementary was recognized for closing the achievement gap in the 2013-14 school year, which was a huge accomplishment,” said Hogan. “Shortly after that, they moved our building from a smaller to a larger building and took in an additional 300 students from another school. It was a little challenging and probably a little scary for some, but we're still standing proudly.”
After spending 15 years at Washington Elementary, Hogan has cherished numerous favorite moments, yet none compare to her time coaching the Boys Basketball team.
“There's so many moments I loved, but the celebrations in sports would have to be my favorite. I coached Boys Basketball for several years straight. While coach, we did a great job and we brought home the title for the elementary schools in East Chicago for several years straight. Those are accomplishments I cherish because many of those boys have graduated and are now in college, yet they still come back to me to share stories about our accomplishments as a basketball team.”
Hogan treats her students with the same care and affection as she would her children, creating a nurturing and supportive environment in the school.
“My goal every day is to make sure that my students are learning,” said Hogan. ”I call them my babies even though the students don't want me to call them that – that's what they are to me. I treat my students the same way I treat my two boys. I consider myself a servant leader every day that I go into the job and bless my students and my staff with my constant energy.”
Hogan is dedicated to helping her students daily and expresses gratitude to her uncle and aunt for inspiring her.
“Our staff wants to see our kids grow and learn, and I'm here to give everything I possibly can to support that effort,” said Hogan. “Not to mention, my heart and soul wouldn’t feel right if I don’t mention my biggest influences in education, my uncle Fred Robinson and my aunt Loris Bradford.”
Outside of her professional commitments, Hogan is deeply involved in being a basketball mom and her sorority community. She also enjoys getting together with friends when time allows.
“I am a basketball mom,” said Hogan. “I just came from a regional basketball game for my youngest, and then I'll be back on the road to go pick up my oldest who's celebrating a birthday. I like to get together with my friends when I do find the right time, but as of now, I am invested in my senior who's going to be graduating.”
Hogan remains an inspiration for the children of Washington Elementary, consistently encouraging them and brightening their days with positivity whenever possible.