Jim Tighe has been a History teacher at Coakley Middle School since 2005, making this his 20th year teaching. In the past year, Jim Tighe announced that the 2024-25 school year would be his last year teaching. 

Everyone who has ever met Tighe or has had him as a teacher has only had good things to say about him.

Past and present students of his describe him as a great teacher.

“[Mr. Tighe] is caring..very interesting; every day you learn something new,” said current student, Nora Kidd. 

Freshman Emma Flanagan had Tighe as a teacher last year. She agreed that being in his class was a highlight of her middle school years. 

“My experience was amazing. I learned so much and enjoyed every class,” Flanagan said.

Tighe wasn’t always in the teaching field though.

He first started in business and worked for companies for many years before finding his place at the Coakley Middle School.

“It was my first year teaching. I had worked in business for many years and was excited about the career change and change in the direction my life was taking. I enjoyed every minute of it. I knew I found something I wanted to do,” Tighe said.

Jim Tighe made sure that his students knew that they were what made his job throughout the years worth it.

“I have had many favorite classes over the years. The best classes are the ones where students engage in the material and there is a lively discussion. When students are engaged and invested in the material you can have debates, discussions, and fun group activities. The students are what makes it fun,” said Tighe.