Harry Hughes serves as the Interim Chief of Schools and Instructional Superintendent for Cluster 7 in DC Public Schools (DCPS), marking his second appointment as a Chief of Schools after previously serving as Chief Schools Officer for Richmond Public Schools. With 26 years of experience in urban education, he has built a reputation for developing high-performing school leaders, driving academic achievement, and strengthening school systems.

Mr. Hughes began his career with DCPS in 1999 as a classroom teacher before serving as assistant principal and principal at Tubman Elementary School, where he led sustained gains in student achievement. As an Instructional Superintendent, he has coached and evaluated school leaders across both elementary and middle schools. Under his leadership, Cluster 7 middle schools have achieved double-digit gains in mathematics and English Language Arts proficiency while implementing initiatives that have improved students’ sense of belonging.

Mr. Hughes is committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional growth. Most recently, he completed the Howard University–HYA Superintendents Academy during the 2025–2026 school year. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Virginia, a master’s degree in educational administration from Trinity University, and an executive master’s in leadership from Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business. He is a recipient of the Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leaders Award and the DCPS Rubenstein Award for Highly Effective Leadership.

View the full list of Instructional Superintendents and their assigned cluster of schools.