I believe without a doubt that the difference between good and great teachers is that great teachers are always learning. We at Naples Elementary have a school full of great teachers, and today I get to recognize one of them. Mr. Jason Murray is the fourth grade teacher at Naples Elementary. Mr. Murray joined the Wolverines this year after moving with his wife, Andra, and their two children from Seattle, WA. I will always remember getting a call last spring from Mr. Murray. His wife had recently been hired as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Lake Pend Oreille School District, and Mr. Murray was looking for a position in a nearby district. I’m not one to believe in fate, but I kind of believe that fate brought Mr. Murray to Naples Elementary.

It’s one thing to hear about differentiation being done in the classroom, but it’s a totally different experience to see it happening. As educators, we always try to meet the needs of all of our students, and I can say that Mr. Murray is able to incorporate different teaching styles into his classroom that meets the needs of ALL students. It really is an incredible thing to watch. All of Mr. Murray’s kids know that not only does Mr. Murray care for them, he also believes in them. It’s seems like a simple concept that if your students know you are there for them no matter what, then they are willing to take risks and participate fully in class. Not all teachers can do this, but Mr. Murray can. He has a real knack for getting his kids to try things and take academic chances. If you want to see how a student-led classroom operates, then you need to visit Mr. Murray’s class.

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Murray has really stepped up and helped out Naples in major ways. He’s going to be attending a training this January, so he can help the district meet the needs of our GATE students. He is also willing to help out in any way at Naples. Just last week, while our custodian was busy with shoveling our sidewalks, Mr. Murray gave up his prep, picked up a vacuum, and got to work. Mr. Murray has a positive presence on the playground and in the hallways. Linda Lee, Naples Secretary, says that “Mr. Murray is always positive and optimistic. He’s willing to do more, and he’s super funny.” The students and staff really enjoy working with him. He brings a level of professionalism that is appreciated by students, staff, and parents.

It’s with great honor that I recognize Mr. Jason Murray as Boundary County School District’s Certified Employee of the Month for December. Thank you, Mr. Murray for making Naples Elementary a fun place to work, play, and grow. Go Mr. Murray! And Go Wolverines!

Respectfully yours,

Lisa Iverson, Principal