Mr. Hugh Pollock to retire from Arendell Parrott Academy
After 53 years of Hugh Pollock walking the halls of Arendell Parrott Academy (APA), he has announced his intention to retire.
“Mr. Hugh Pollock is not only a legend at APA but a pillar and true representation of what this academy stands for,” said Brooke Sutton, headmaster of Arendell Parrott Academy. “He has served this school faithfully for 53 years as a teacher, coach, assistant headmaster, and even served as headmaster for two years.”
After he announced his retirement, the students dressed up as Pollock who often wore khakis and a buttoned-up dress shirt.
Former headmaster Dr. Bert Bright said, “Mr. Pollock has been an incredible friend to me and so many in ENC, and he will forever be the face of Parrot Academy!”
Sutton also agreed. “Mr. Pollock is the face of Parrott Academy and has been a loyal and trusted member of the faculty during his tenure. Although he will no longer be with us on campus next year, his presence will forever remain in the students and teachers that he has taught and mentored over the years.”
Pollock has served the students of APA longer than the prominent magnolia tree that stands in the front of the building has been alive.
“He’s been a pillar of this school for 53 years. He has worn many different hats here but the constant has always been the love for all the kids,” said Kimberly Pollock Whitley, Pollock’s daughter, and APA teacher.
His tenure has allowed him to impact different generations, as he taught children whose parents were once in his classroom.
“After 50 plus years, he has earned a little time off,” said Bright. “I wish him all the best as he begins his retirement!”
Pollock will miss the children the most.
“I love kids, I love educating kids,” said Pollock. “The last thing I was going to be was a teacher. It’s the first thing I entered into, and I loved it.”
“He’s known for his policing of keeping shirttails in and fist-bumping the kids from Transition to high school,” said Whitley. “But more importantly he’s known for listening, giving good advice, and being fair to all. He will sorely be missed by all.”
Pollock doesn’t know what the future holds for him.
“My car will probably keep coming here,” said Pollock. “It’s like an old horse. I think it will automatically ride here. I don’t know, I’ve never done anything else. I’ve never even dabbled in anything else.”
The students and staff at APA will send him off with well wishes and excitement for his future.
“We wish him all the best as he transitions into his well-deserved retirement,” said Sutton.
