Mr. Murray is new to the Reading community and we decided to sit down with him one afternoon and pick his mind on what he thinks about his transition to Reading and his prior jobs.
Who is Mr. Murray?
Mr. Murray came from Stoneham High School, working as an assistant principal as well; Having 8 years of experience to the job. He also lives in Stoneham with his wife and four children. We asked him why he chose to come to Reading and he said that this was the change he didn't realize he needed until he met the Reading staff, who greeted him with open arms and he cites as his greatest mentors. The staff specifically, Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Boynton, Mrs. Theriault, and Mrs. Kelly were kind and encouraged him want to experience what it is like to work in the Reading community. Upon accepting the job, Mr. Murray cites that his transition was quick and smooth thanks to the help of the staff credited earlier.
How did Murray get to where he is now?
Well, Mr. Murray comes from Methuen and went to Central Catholic High School where he discovered that his passion for teaching, sparked in one of his classes. One day he says he was messing around and his teacher, who he says he had a good bond with, told him to get up and teach the class (as a joke). Since that day, Mr. Murray realized his love for teaching and thanks that teacher for the big influence he had on his life.
A hockey player at the time, Mr. Murray did not have the teaching profession on his radar. But his teacher inspired him and from then on he planned to pursue a career in education. He studied at Salve Regina college, and then on to to get his masters a Cambridge College, eventually starting off as an English teacher. He quotes that from day one, “he has never woken up and not wanted to go to work” and that his job brings him joy and satisfaction knowing that he is inspiring children.
How did he hear about this job?
The job was posted online, making the opportunity to apply easier for those wanting the job. Mr. Murray was not planning on finding a new job, but he says that once he was introduced to the Reading staff he found a new community, and being intrigues and open to the new opportunities, he applied. The community he says was so welcoming and that the staff were so helpful to him. He credits his fellow principal, Ms. Boynton, and Co Vice Principle, Ms. Theriault, as being extremely influential in his transition.
What are your day to day tasks?
Mr. Murray informed us that he is mainly in charge of ninth and eleventh graders, as Mrs. Theriault handles the other two classes. He mostly deals with student safety, making sure students are protected and everyone is in an environment where they can learn the best. Mr. Murray also helps with the guidance department and students who need support.
Mostly, he ensures that students are in the best place they can be. He highlights that a misconception for assistant principals is that they deal with troubled kids and punishments. This is actually quite the opposite, Mr. Murray says that students form tight bonds with him and just come in to say “hello.” as Mr. Murray did with his teacher that influenced him to become a teacher.
What’s one club you’re interested in?
One club Mr. Murray showed great enthusiasm to would be GSA, Gay Straight Alliance. This club at our school is one Mr. Murray feels could become an amazing space for all, as he’s sure it already is. He looks forward to getting to know the members better and make an inclusive environment for all around RMHS.
Advice for students and especially seniors for their future?
Mr. Murray says that his best advice for students who are stressed out is to step back and realize their limits. It is important to take breaks, and distress yourself once in a while. Also, you should work towards goals that you find you are passionate about. Most importantly, empower people.
Editor's Note:
Mr. Murray is all about community and relationships with his students. Thank you Mr. Murray for meeting with us and welcome to the school! If you see Mr. Murray in the halls, make sure to say hi!