It was 11 years ago when Sarah Jo Murphy stopped by the principal”s office at Heritage Academy”s elementary school.
After 33 years of teaching at New Hope Elementary School, Murphy had put in her time. Starting her teaching career anew wasn”t on the agenda.
“I thought I wanted a break,” Murphy admitted.
But before she knew it, she was back in the classroom and loving every minute of it.
“This whole 11 years has renewed my passion to be a teacher,” Murphy said.
Murphy, who teaches second grade at Heritage, was named this year”s Mississippi Association of Independent Schools” Elementary Teacher of the Year.
Up against teachers from throughout the state and not expecting to win the award, Murphy appreciated just being nominated.
“It”s an honor to be selected as a nominee,” she said.
For her school principal, Yandell Harris, Murphy was the obvious candidate.
“She”s just an outstanding educator,” he said. “She”s very caring and nurturing.”
Murphy also works to incorporate technology in the classroom and is always looking for “fresh,” “innovative” ideas, Harris said.
Each year, Murphy prints individualized photo and memory books for every student in her class, as a way to preserve the memories made during the school year.
“She takes pictures of special moments for each child throughout the year and compiles these into a book,” Harris wrote in recommending Murphy for the award.
“Each memory book is unique and cherished by the children and their families,” he added.
For her students, memories of Murphy are preserved in their hearts, as well.
“I was lucky enough to be in her first second-grade class at Heritage. She is the kind of teacher who helps you meet your full potential as a student,” McKenzie Jones wrote in a letter recommending Murphy for the Teacher of the Year award. “She makes learning fun while inspiring you to do your personal best.”
McKenzie, now a senior at Heritage, is the daughter of Dr. Scott and Allison Jones.
Murphy”s current second-grade class also appreciates her dedication to her craft.
“She”s a very good teacher, and I”m glad I got to be in her second-grade class,” said Sarah Curtis. Sarah is the daughter of Dennis and Denise Turner.
William Laws agreed and added “She”s fun.” William is the son of Bill and Jami Laws.
Murphy”s parents, Aubrey and Clare Mae Lann, were a principal and teacher, respectively, before retiring to open Lann Furniture. Murphy knew at an early age she wanted to follow in those footsteps.
“I love being in the classroom,” Murphy said. “I”m there for them. I want them to be in a loving, nurturing environment.”
In a questionnaire issued by the MAIS, Murphy said challenging her students “comes naturally.”
“I know all students can learn, so I expect great things from each child,” she wrote.
Murphy also embraces the children”s individuality: “Each student is unique and brings a different personality and learning experience to the classroom, and I embrace each individual child for who she or he is.”
Murphy”s daughter, Shannon Vickers, teaches fifth grade at New Hope schools.
“That was my legacy (there). I left her with them,” Murphy said. “We got to teach one year together, and I retired.”
Another daughter, Kayla Hatcher, woks as a physical therapist at Rehab at Work.
Murphy”s husband, Billy, died nine years ago, another reason she has time to thrust herself into teaching, post-retirement. She also appreciates the liberties that come with teaching at a private school.
Murphy was presented the Teacher of the Year Award at the MAIS meeting in Jackson, last Friday.
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