Sam Hughes Elementary School challenges students academically and promotes leadership, character-building and perseverance. All grades embark on “learning expeditions” for a semester or a school year that enable them to explore subjects in depth.

Curiosity and inquiry are encouraged at Sam Hughes, and the goal is to teach children to be lifelong learners who act locally and think globally. Sam Hughes is an Opening Minds through the Arts school, which means that it uses an arts-integrated curriculum. The school also offers chess, physical education, full-day kindergarten and before- and after-school programs.

Sam Hughes has a strong community that supports the students, teachers and the school. Parents are involved in all aspects of the school, as are members of the Sam Hughes community.