Teresa E. Murphy, 2022
Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year
Teresa Ellen Murphy’s inspiration for
teaching is simple – it is her students at Spanish Lake Elementary School. The
27-year veteran 3rd-grade teacher was named the 2022 Francisco R. Walker
Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year in a virtual ceremony that was live
streamed this evening.
Teaching is a
lifelong passion for Murphy, who believes that students must take ownership of
their learning to reach their full potential. She created a daily “Home
Learning Organizational Chart” for students and parents to monitor and reflect
on their work. She wants to impact students’ lives in such a way that 20 years
later, they return grateful for the kindness, understanding and special
attention they received. Such was the case with a recent invitation to the law
school graduation of a former kindergartener.
Murphy is
always the first to share new practices and technology with her colleagues and
utilizes her data analysis and grant writing skills to innovate and enhance the
learning experience.
She involves
students in community service projects like collecting toys for homeless youth,
and creating awareness about stroke prevention, as she suffered a stroke in
2012. This year, as she battles other health challenges, she demonstrates to
her students the power of determination, positivity, and perseverance. Developing
compassion, citizenship and a sense of community is her goal – as “good humans”
are just as important as “good students.”
Click here for a video from Murphy’s school, Spanish Lake Elementary.
The runner-up
is Yolette Mezadieu from Miami Edison Senior High School.
The top rookie teachers were also recognized at the event.
Nerissa Manela, 2021
Rookie Teacher of the Year.
Nerissa Manela, a music teacher from
Morningside K-8 Academy, was named the 2021 Rookie Teacher of the Year.
Describing herself as determined, when she was six years old, Manela
recalls asking her parents for violin lessons. That musical instrument has led
to her career. While cultivating an appreciation for the arts and uncovering
hidden talents, she also introduces students to multiple musical genres and
cultures.
Click here for a video from Morningside K-8 Academy.
Erica Echeverri of TERRA Environmental
Research Institute is the runner-up.
The signature
sponsors are South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union, United
Way of Miami-Dade, Office Depot, Univision 23 and Kendall
Toyota, which will present the Teacher of the Year winner with the keys
to a new car. The event is made possible through
partnerships with United Teachers of Dade (UTD), the Miami-Dade County Council
of PTAs/PTSAs, and the Dade Association of School Administrators.
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