Staff and administration honored two individuals who made a “lasting and meaningful impact” on Middle Township’s educational community
Cape May Court House, NJ – Middle Township Public Schools administration hosted a special dedication ceremony on Thursday, May 15, honoring two distinguished members of the school community – Gloria Hodges and Richard Ludwig.
The high school’s Band Room and the Guidance Suite were renamed in recognition of the school community members’ exceptional contributions. Staff brought the Hodges and Ludwig families to each room to unveil the new signage.
“We are excited to honor two remarkable individuals who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on our educational community,” said MTPS Superintendent Dr. David Salvo.
(L-R) Middle Township Elementary #1 teacher Andrea Davis (daughter), Middle Township Middle School Assistant Principal Andre Hodges, Superintendent Dr. David Salvo, Middle Township Middle School teacher Christal Homes (daughter), Middle Township High School Principal Dr. Sharon Rementer, Board of Education President Stephanie Thomas, former BOE member Dennis Roberts, and BOE member Burgess “Butch” Hamer pose with a dedication plaque on behalf of Gloria Hodges.
Gloria Hodges
Hodges was a teacher and guidance counselor at Middle Township High School for 43 years. She began her career at Middle Township Middle School as a math teacher and was named Teacher of the Year twice. In 1986, Hodges transitioned to MTHS as a guidance counselor. In this role, Hodges introduced vital programs such as peer mediation and positive black generation, which provided students with a creative and expressive outlet through the arts.
Hodges was promoted to the Director of Guidance position and founded the MTHS’s alternative program for disaffected students; offering hope, support and opportunity to those who needed it the most. Hodges retired in 2007 but continued to be involved with Middle Township’s school community and was elected to the Board of Education in 2014. She served in the BOE until 2023.
“More than anyone I know, Gloria has had a profound and lasting impact on the culture of Middle Township High,” said Salvo. “She poured her heart into this community and left a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. It is with deep gratitude and immense honor that we named the Guidance Suite in her name.”
A Hightstown High School graduate, Hodges continued her studies at Delaware State College and then earned a master’s degree from Rowan University.
(L-R) MTPS Superintendent Dr. David Salvo, Jennifer Tyndall (daughter), Richard Ludwig and Antoinette Ludwig (wife) stand with the new signage for the Richard P. Ludwig Band Room.
Richard Ludwig
Ludwig is MTPS’s former music teacher and director of the award-winning MTHS marching band. After spending three years at Ventnor Public Schools, Ludwig joined MTPS in 1973 where he dedicated 34 years to music education. He worked with the National Judges Association Tournament of Bands Music Festivals and, in his later years at the district, was the director of MTPS performing arts.
During his time as the director of the MTHS marching band, Ludwig led the students to many victories; their trophies and banners are still on display in the band room. His love for music was contagious, and his enthusiasm, energy and joy were evident in the classroom, on the field and on the stage. Ludwig retired from MTPS in 2007.
“Richard’s leadership, discipline and dedication helped forge a sense of pride and unity across our entire community,” said Salvo. “His work went beyond music. He created memories, fostered friendships and inspired excellence. Richard left the legacy of not only musical excellence, but also of kindness, commitment and community spirit. His impact will be felt for many years to come.”
Ludwig graduated from Millville Senior High School in 1966 and then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Glassboro State College in 1970. He completed his master’s degree from Glassboro State College in 1984.
“I had the pleasure of helping coordinating this project, and every step was a tremendous reminder of how much of an impact Richard and Gloria made here at Middle,” said MTHS Principal Dr. Sharon Rementer. “Many of us worked together to bring this to life, and now seeing their names displayed throughout the school they both helped shape creates a lasting tribute to the inspiration they gave our community.”
After the ceremony, attendees gathered in the Media Center for a light lunch and celebration.