Grosse Pointe Teacher Goes Literally​ Everywhere

Public school teacher Rufus McGaugh, 68, who taught social studies in Grosse Point for 45 years, released a book this week detailing his visit to 252 countries - every country in the world. Without ever relying on a text, McGaugh taught students about cultures from across the globe. The voyage of (literally) a lifetime took the McGaugh 49 years. He spent his summer hiatuses traveling, and then used his experience and slides to bring each country to life for his students.

According to the Detroit Free Press, McGaugh’s former students count members of the US diplomatic core and labor union leaders. One of McGaugh’s Brownell students, Tom Coyle, credits his teacher with his interest in other cultures. A graduate of West Point and Army veteran, and current diplomat, Coyle told told the Free Press:

“I have traveled around the world for work and pleasure,” he said, “as a direct result of Rufus’ influence.”

Read full coverage of this story in the Detroit Free Press.

Patch File photo.