Hello everyone my name is Johnny McGrath and I am your WoodShop Teacher here at Hoquiam High School!  I was blessed enough to be under the tutelage of my predecessor, mentor and friend Laurie Howard and am looking forward to continuing the legacy of the WoodShop and paying homage to the names of past graduating classes on the Shop walls.  I am excited to work beside the next generation of Tradesmen/women and crafty DIYers during their time at HHS. 

A little bit about me.  I am originally from New England (Grays Harbor is pretty New England without the Northeast blizzards so this area fits me and my family perfectly).  I was stationed in North Carolina in the United States Marine Corps and stayed in North Carolina where I met my wife and where both of our daughters were born.  During my time in North Carolina I was able to complete my Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education and worked as a self-employed contractor in North Carolina. The shortage of contractors in the Pacific Northwest brought us across the country away from the muggy heat of NC.  Our journey landed us in the familiar small town environment that we absolutely adore.  I have lived and visited all over the country and there is no place quite like Grays Harbor, it truly is one of the most beautiful areas of the country. 

My goals for the WoodShop and my students are quite simple.  Impart the basic information that students will need in order to have confidence and understanding of crafting projects with wood and construction projects.  Beyond that, to equip students for the REAL WORLD that awaits students after High School.  This means being "faithful to the process" from conception of an idea to the finished product and the gratification and confidence that comes with seeing the end result of their efforts.  Along with helping students build confidence in their psychomotor and kinesthetic skills, there will be a reinforcement of the "soft-people" skills that promote success in students as they become adults.  I look forward to working with both you the students and the parents in fostering habits that will promote successful Grizzly Alumni.  GO GRIZZLIES!

Mr. McGrath

Woodworking Foundations I & II

Building and Construction Trades

HHS Shop Club

360-538-8342

jmcgrath@hoquiam.net