Music that Describes William
William Murphy's nominator would like to remain anonymous.
Mr. Murphy has served in the educational system for 30 years as a teacher, principal, assistant principal, football coach, athletic director, tutor, and so much more. His career started as a math teacher in 1998, where he started the journey of teaching math in a way that allowed clear understanding to all students. It didn't matter if your journey with math had been difficult - once you took a course with Mr. Murphy, your views regarding math were changed. He had a way of differentiating instruction before educators knew about this type of teaching. Mr. Murphy could take the lowest performing math students and teach them to embrace math in a way that moved their achievement into another growth bracket.
After serving in the classroom as a math teacher for 15 years, Mr. Murphy received the opportunity to become the Assistant Principal of Columbia High School. He used his position as the Assistant Principal of Discipline to do all he could to keep as many students as possible learning in the classroom, as opposed to being in out-of-school or in-school suspension. This was only possible because of Mr. Murphy's strategic ability to make fair decisions, his honesty and his belief in forming lasting relationships with colleagues and families.
Although he served as math teacher and Assistant Principal in the secondary setting, his duties didn’t stop there. He served as Assistant Coach of Football. Having been born, raised and engraved in sports, Mr. Murphy's heart and passion is always close to the field. His work days would start at least an hour early, and immediately after school hours, he would assume his role as football coach. One would think that’s a lot to tackle, but Mr. Murphy's evaluations from his boss always proved he was Highly Effective in everything he was committed to accomplishing.
In 2008, Mr. Murphy was approached by Narragansett Smith, who believed he would be a good candidate to take her place as principal of Niblack Elementary School as she took on her new role as Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Murphy applied for the position and accepted the offer. Not only would elementary school be a change of pace for him, but he would also have to stop coaching football. Columbia County Schools District’s principals cannot coach school related teams. This was a huge sacrifice for Mr. Murphy, but it was one he took. This shows his willingness to make necessary sacrifices for the better good of what is more important at the time. At this time, his core focus was to provide strong leadership for Niblack Elementary.
While serving as principal, the school was able to soar from being a grade “C” school to a graded “A” school. Many teachers, students and parents often spoke of their amazement towards Mr. Murphy. They told stories of how he would help the cafeteria workers serve lunch and breakfast because they were short staffed. Teachers would often share how Mr. Murphy would come into their classroom and teach a math lesson to their class, staying true to his love for math. When families were experiencing hardship, it was never uncommon to see a student in the backseat of Mr. Murphy’s car being transported. It was a reflection of Mr. Murphy staying true to his willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure students are in school learning. Eventually, he returned to secondary education, returning to serving as Assistant Principal and his love for the field as Football Coach. It was as if he picked right up from where he started, only this time, Mr. Murphy is Assistant Principal of Curriculum at Lake City Middle School and volunteering as Football Coach to Fort White High School, which is thirty minutes away from his school. He serves faithfully on his campus, then travels to football practice to volunteer his time in the lives of the students on the field.
Throughout his 30 years in education, Mr. Murphy has served as a faithful tutor. He has tutored students of all ages, ethnicity backgrounds and socioeconomic backgrounds. In addition, he has tutored educated teachers who have struggled with passing the math portion of Florida’s certification exams. Every teacher he has tutored has passed successfully. He tutors from a pure heart of genuine care and dedication. Mr. Murphy refuses to charge a fee for tutoring. He believes that he is blessed with a mathematical gift, and since it is a gift, his job is to share it freely with others.
Mr. Murphy is a deacon at his church and serves as the Chairman of the Board for his union, which is made of seven churches for seven different cities. He is always willing to help others and has shown this during his 30 years in education and throughout his life. His friends and church family describs him as a very caring person who they love to be around. He is also the father of two children who are involved in gymnastics, cheer, cooking club, basketball and school. If you had a day to spend with him, you would see how many lives he has impacted positively.
"Can you imagine how many lives William has changed? My heart beams with such admiration because I am unable to calculate a number, but I know he has changed the lives of many," said his nominator. "I know this by the many Facebook messages I receive from others asking if I would ask William to help them find the solution for their math problems. I know this by the amount of phone calls and text messages I receive that are not even for me, but to seek the advice or assistance of William."
"William has impacted so many lives that even attending a parade in his community and sitting on the sidewalk stoop means the parade’s line is going to be halted, because every car will stop and make a special greeting to him. Seriously," said his nominator. "I’m unable to calculate a number, but I can tell he has impacted many lives by the amount of phone calls he answers all day long on his personal cell phone that are completely related to one of his roles in the community. I can tell by the amount of former students that have moved away from our city to pursue professional careers, some even now professional football players, but they never fail to call William when they return home and invite him to lunch so they can catch up. I can tell he has changed the lives of so many by the fact that he has more than 150 days, not hours, but days that are available for him to take off from work. He has this many because he never takes off, remaining dedicated and true to being an example and standard keeper for his students and colleagues."
If you ever meet Mr. Murphy yourself or heard from the many people who have such amazing experiences with him, you would see first-hand why he is a LifeChanger in his community. Not every day has been beautiful; there have been devastations and unfavorable situations, but he has perservered and remained true to his dedication and character of humility like only he can.
"William is one of the few people who knows their calling and purpose in life. His is truly to teach, train, equip and foster others in whatever way he is able to assist," said his nominator. "He does so while somehow perfectly balancing with the other important roles in his life. He instills in others a desire to be their best, a love for learning, and creates an environment that fosters respect and acceptance of others. William also teaches the rest of us, his colleagues, family and community at large, to always give our best every day, to always wear a smile, and to always be content in every circumstance."
This Christmas, Mr. Murphy received a card from a student at his school, who wrote, “A great Assistant Principal builds character, inspires dreams, encourages creativity, builds confidence, instills a love of learning, and touches our hearts and changes our life forever.” Already, Mr. Murphy is changing the life of this student, and so many more.
I have worked with Mr. Murphy at Lake City Middle School on a couple of different occasions. The first time he was the Assistant Principal who took care of discipline at our school. He did really well in this position. Our school is low socio economic with over 2000 referrals the year he was in that position. He was very busy and stayed visible on campus to the students when he wasn't in the discipline office. He had a good rapport with the students and often they would even ask to go see him if a problem arose that they needed his advice. He knew many of their parents and made it a point to get to know and build a relationship with the parents who he saw most often. He worked hard and really tried to make a difference the way these middle schoolers behaved. This year Mr. Murphy is our Assistant Principal who works with the teachers on curriculum. He goes in classrooms daily to check on lessons, curriculum standards and assessments, behavior, teacher needs and the flow of the campus. He has a positive attitude and makes teachers feel appreciated. Mr. Murphy is always helpful and appreciated at our school. We are lucky to have his experience as a leader.
Mr. Murphy is an outstanding educator. He always puts the students first and never shows partiality. He treats ALL students the same. He is VERY compassionate and understanding and does what is RIGHT for each child. He is a dedicated husband and father. Mr. Murphy is a wonderful person!!!
I met Mr. Murphy in 1990 as we both taught math here in Pensacola, Florida, at a school the provided educational opportunities for At-Risk students. Upon my first meeting Mr. Murphy, I found him to be a caring, yet no-nonsense educator. As we both taught many of the same students, I would always be amused at the different comments students would make about "that Mr. Murphy". I would love asking, "what's wrong with Mr. Murphy"? The students would all say, "He makes us do work"! Good job Mr. Murphy, making students do work in school! One of the attributes of Mr. Murphy that is so noteworthy of mention is his genuine caring for the student, not only when it comes to classwork, but when it comes to impacting a students future. The number of students that I have witnessed Mr. Murphy reach out to beyond the classroom is too many for me to number. In addition, as I am a Pastor, I came to know Mr. Murphy in leadership outside of the classroom and within the religious community. Mr. Murphy's leadership also impacted our men's group in a positive way, and we did many positive community outreach programs while he was with our church. I am honored in that he became a deacon while a member of the St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Throughout the years I not only see Mr. Murphy as an outstanding educator, administrator, and leader, I am more honored to call him my friend. If there is one truly deserving of this most worthy honor, it is Mr. William Murphy!
I have know Mr. Murphy for many years as a teacher, boss, and friend, and through the years he has been an awesome role model for our youth and the number one "go to" about any math problem I've ever had. We seem to lack dedicated male figures in the classroom when it comes to our youth today, but Mr. Murphy has been nothing short of amazing when it comes to encouraging, and breaking barriers which plague our students within the school system and in our community.
Mr. Murphy withholds essential traits that separates him from the norm. To begin with, Mr. Murphy has superior listening skills. Daily, important questions are asked or statements are made and then he actively, carefully, empathetically listens. In turn, several things considered unrepairable, are fixed! Many fall short of developing this patient quality in themselves. In addition to, he has a strong work ethic. This is an important part of being successful in your career. His good habits such as being professional, focusing, staying motivated, finishing tasks immediately, and creating a work life balance impresses everyone he crosses. Lastly, he possesses the ability to build a positive community. Only leaders understand the importance of building supportive and collaborative environments. He knows how to establish guidelines and assign roles to enlist everyone's help and participation. Each individual feels like they are not only accepted by the larger group, but that their presence is a necessary ingredient.
Congratulations Mr.Murphy we need more people like you in the school system that's concerned about the students and staff.Thanks Mr Murphy
Mr. Murphy is a caring person, he is a man that loves helping anyone that's in need, he is truly a man that never meets a stranger. Congratulation
Mr. Murphy is very committed, compassionate and dedicated to the Columbia School System..
Mr. Murphy is a dedicated Educator who's passion is ensuring that every student gets the best education possible!
Congratulations Mr. Murphy!
Congratulations on being selected as a life changer of the year. You are truly one who deserves this honor and title. You touch so many lives through you walk on this earth. May God continue to bless you and your family.
Mr. Murphy is a dedicated, humble and compassionate educator. He truly deserves this honor.
Dr. Syllen Hill, Assistant Principal
Mr. Murphy is a very enthusiastic and caring person. Really good with children and adults
Mr. Murphy is definitely worthy of this award. He has touched the lives of so many young people and adults. He is always willing to assist in any way possible. He goes above and beyond the call of duty. He gives up many afternoons and weekend to support our youth. He always offers a smile and positive comment to others. He has an uplifting spirit and builds character in students. He has touched the lives of so many students. He has touched the lives of so many. I am thankful to have crossed paths with him.
A heart of gold enveloped in an aura of love would be how I would describe the main characteristic of Mr. William Murphy. When "Murph" came to Lake City, I was instructed by his uncle to look out for him. I introduced myself to him and informed him that his uncle appointed me as guardian. I adopted him as my "little" brother and welcomed in to the family. William has worked with me as the math coach for my National Achievers team in state math competition. He continues to serve as my main source of formulating questions for our Bible Brain Competition in our District Congress of Christian Education. Some years he coordinates the entire competition. As an educator, Coach serves as an inspiration to students from middle school through high school. He is a math whiz. He really reaches out in the community to lend a helping hand to all whom he comes in contact.
CONGRATULATIONS LITTLE BROTHER MURPH.
Mr. Murphy is a awesome man. I liked him from day 1.
# GO NOLES!
Congratulations Mr. Murphy keep up the good work again congratulations
Congratulations !!! To my brother William my parents adopted him years ago while teaching in Pensacola, Florida. We became connected by so many close church members, friends and family. He is a wonderful, God fearing man, a loving husband and a great dad. We have had a special bond every since we met and I am so glad to call him my friend. You are so deserving.
Mr. Murphy is definitely worthy of this award. He has touched the lives of so many young people and adults. He is always willing to assist in any way possible. He goes above and beyond the call of duty. He gives up many afternoons and weekend to support our youth. He always offers a smile and positive comment to others. He has an uplifting spirit and builds character in students. He has touched the lives of so many students. He has touched the lives of so many. I am thankful to have crossed paths with him.
Mr. Murphy is a great leader, coach, mentor, educator, administrator, Christian, husband, father and man! I have had the pleasure of being a student of his and now a colleague. He is a wealth of knowledge and he helps everyone that he can. He is one of the best in his field. His experience and love for education makes him the best at what he does. Congratulations and he is INDEED a Life changer! Just ask anyone that he encounters.
Congratulations on 30 years of excellence!!!Your work within the community and your devotion to education is commendable and should be recognized. You have a heart of gold, and are always giving your time to others! Thanks for making a difference in not only the lives of the students, but to everyone you encounter.
I have known William for 40+ years. He is a kind, humble young man who never meets a stranger. His love for God, family, and teaching speaks volumes to the person he is. He’s motivated hundreds of children to make good choices and to believe in themselves. I’m so proud of the work he has done in the classroom teaching students and on the football field coaching players. William is a class act! He is so deserving of this honor and the recognition that comes with it.
William is my first cousin. Having grown up in a close knitted family, William displays the core values, handed down from our grandparents. Work hard with love and compassion to all. He has a unique love for people. He's passionate about teaching to assure no child is left behind. I am so proud of him. I know he is worthy of any accolades afforded to him!
God Bless You Mr. Murphy. You are the best of the best. Stand Still and Watch God .??
I have known William for nearly 30 years and have worked with him both as a colleague and as his supervisor. He is very student oriented and has great compassion for young people regardless of their circumstances. I am not surprised that he is a finalist for an award with the name "Life Changer".
Congratulations Mr. Murphy,
You are truly deserving of this nomination and I pray that you definitely receive all of the honors. You can find the " Hardest working man" in education is at LCMS. He's always in the hallway monitoring the student movements , cafeteria duty, bus duty, and in our classrooms for moral support for teachers, staff, and students. Mr. Murphy is a motivator and always extending his hand to help out no matter where he is needed. The students love Mr. Murphy unconditionally and he treat each and everyone of them with the upmost respect.
I am truly blessed that God brought Mr. Murphy into my life. Mr. Murphy was a person who saw so much potential in me when I was growing up that I didn’t see. He would take my friends and me on trips to various places we may not have had an opportunity to since we came from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. He would always tell me, “Son, never pass up an opportunity to travel and see the world; because there is so much out there for you to learn, and it’s so much more in this world than little old Lake City.” He helped me to be the first person in my family to graduate from a 4-year university and to become a Senior Consultant with one of the top software companies in the world. Thank you, Mr. Murphy, for all you have done in my life and may God continue to bless you to be the person you are today.
Mr. Murphy has been a wonderful influence in my child's life as well as my family. Mr Murphy has done wonderful things in the school system to help our children grow and become better students. I appreciate all that he has put into our child and push them in the right direction.
Having know Mr. Murphy since his early years as an educator, he decided to take on a challenge that would take on a Goliath of a person. He and I are both mathematicians. We became friends during his tenure in Northwest Florida and continue to communicate regularly. Here is what I observed about him. Most people wait for their circumstances to change before they decide to change their attitude. He taught his students and colleagues that way of thinking was backwards. He noticed that students especially quit attending classes because of circumstances. He told them that the truth is, if you'll change the way you think about your world, your world will change. He told them that they have access to a kingdom of unlimited resources, it your mind. He instilled in his students that "you and you alone determine your destiny by the choice of your attitude". I am reminded of the words of apostle Paul, "Whatsoever things are good, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things re good report, think on these things" (Phil. 4:8}. Mr. Murphy has always been the a the kind of friend that everyone should have in his/her life.
MR. MURPHY IS AN AMAZING PERSON AND AN EXCELLENT MENTOR TO OUR STUDENTS. HE'S A TRUE EDUCATOR, ALWAYS REACHING OUT TO HELP THE STUDENTS.
HE IS A DEDICATED HUSBAND, FATHER AND REACHES OUT TO THE COMMUNITY. MR. MURPHY IS WELL DESERVING OF THIS ACCOMPLISHMENT.
Mr. Murphy is a very inspiring and motivational Assistant Principal. He is one of the best administrative staff that I have been able to communicate with and ask advice when handling challenging situations. He is always enthusiastic about encouraging student engagement and providing learning opportunities for individual students . Overall, Mr. Murphy is an educator that positively impacts our school and community.
I have the distinct pleasure of working with Mr. Murphy. He is always ready to help or give you assistance in any situation. A wonderful man indeed.
Mr. Murphy cares about the students. He works with them on Academics, Discipline, Sports, helps them to become a better person. I have worked with Mr. Murphy for several years, he is easy going, pitches in help us in the office. He could be at the front desk or making copies. Mr. Murphy has two wonderful girls, family comes first with him.
Mr. Murphy has been such an amazing person, I have worked with him and he has never changed. He has a heart for the child and wants the best for each student. I love talking with him has so much knowledge and always wants what's best for everyone. He is just an overall kind of guy that you just have to love. So proud of him.
Mr William Murphy is one of the most caring educators. He moves in and about with the students and he makes so many good things happen for them. He is a friend to students and even when there are challenges, Murphy reacts to students in a positive way. They know he cares and he punishes with love. He talks to students encouraging them to do the best and be the best. They know he is right there and he does not mind listening to their cares.
There is no job too big or small for him. He simply wants to get the job done. Murphy works well with others and is such a team player. He goes over and beyond not only for the students and school staff but for parents and community. One can call on Murphy and he is never too busy to respond and help.
He loves the Lord and his light shines brightly. A volunteer at heart in the community and anywhere he is needed.
Thank you for considering this wonderful nominee.
Mr. Murphy deserves to be recognized for the life changer of the year! I have known him for several years, he is a wonderful Educator, Assistant Principal, and a great father to his two little girls. Mr. Murphy has a positive outlook on life and other situations. Congratulations for a very well deserved recognition!
I have known Mr. Murphy since we were studying to be math educators together at Florida State University. He is kind, caring and an exemplary role model. He truly does have the gift of reaching all students especially those that find math a challenge. He is committed and dedicated 100% to his profession, his family and his friends. Mr. Murphy is much deserving of this honor and I am honored to recommend him.
Mr. Murphy is not only an educator, but a true humanitarian. He cares for so many and rejoices in the success of others. It's never too late at night or too early in the morning for him to extend his services for the betterment of someone else's worth. He serves wholeheartedly at school, in the community and at church. He's a good husband, a great father, a fine role model and a dear friend.
I have had the privilege to know Mr. Murphy in the capacity of both a student and a colleague and have experienced one common thread, true kindness. Mr Murphy has his heart in the right place at all times and exemplifies what a role model should be for today's young men.
Mr. Murphy is one of the most caring people that I have ever worked with. He has always cared about the students in our school system. He is a true father figure to students today at LCMS and former students at other schools that he has worked at. He represents all the characteristics of a great educator who truly cares. As a administrator, he shows you that he cares by offering advice, giving corrective criticism, and supporting you when it is need. There are so many things that Mr.Murphy does that others will never know. I have been blessed to learn under him! He is also a true friend!
Mr. Murphy has had a big impact on me as a teacher. He has always showed me that he cares about everyone. For me, Mr. Murphy has helped me become a better, well-rounded teacher. He has given me advice, given me positive corrective criticism, given me suggestions in relations to classroom situations, and has supported my decisions when they were related to my students. Mr. Murphy is an administrator who shows that he cares for the teachers who work under him.
When it comes the students at LCMS there are so many things that Mr. Murphy has done for the students. The first thing that students know about Mr. Murphy is that he cares about each and everyone of them. He always is willing to listen to them no matter what the situation is. Mr. Murphy is a true father figure to many kids at LCMS today. The same thing can be said for every school that he has worked at. There are so many kids from the past that still consider Mr. Murphy a big influence in their lives. Mr. Murphy treats everyone the same. There are so many things that Mr.Murphy has done over the years here in Columbia County on behalf of students. To sum it all up, Mr. Murphy always has students and his co-workers best interest at heart! I am very proud to work under Mr. Murphy! He is also a true friend!
Mr. Murphy is a outstanding teacher and he continues to dedicate his life to changing lives! Thank you Mr. Murphy for all of your hard work and dedication!
Mr. Murphy has the heart of a champion! He serves his students and his community with all of his heart! He tutors students, teachers, and aspiring teachers. He is present and visible. He is a great person to confide in and an amazing coworker. Congratulations on the nomination!
Mr. Murphy always has a positive attitude.
William Murphy has been a stand out advocate for the children of Columbia County since before I arrived in 2001. He is modest and effective at influencing the lives of the the students with whom he works. Murphy adheres to the philosophy of "managing by walking around." It sounds simple, but when students and teachers see an administrator, they can interact and get to know that administrator. Murphy is approachable and available to both students and teachers. He takes time to talk to students with challenges helping them to navigate through middle and high school and avoid some of the pitfalls. Students and teachers know Mr. Murphy is available to them to face challenges and celebrate achievements. He has certainly been a life changer in Columbia County.
I have known Mr. Murphy since I was a student years ago. He has also shown care, compassion and he is a great person all around.
I have know Mr. Murphy for 4 years he has shown me what it means to love the students we work with every day. He not just a person at our school he is our school everyone knows and respect him. You can see how the students respond to him just by looking around. I work with the tmh student and their week is made by Wednesday high five day they look forward to this and miss him when he is not there. But he takes the time to makeup the high five day as soon as he can. I see the little things he does without even thinking that the students will remember and take with they for a life time.
I have known William since the mid-80s. I don't think there's anyone alive that knows the character and the integrity of this man as much as I do. My wife and I watched him as a young boy and loved him so much, we "adopted" him and called him our own. He was the "best man"at our wedding. Once he graduated from Florida State University, he took off to Pensacola for his 1st teaching job in the car we gave him. In his first year he was instrumental in quelling one of the most significant racial riots in America (or at least Florida's most significant) and he was off and running on the career path he always had wanted. I have audited some of his after-hours tutoring classes in math and have seen for myself his dedication to his students and their dedication to him even as they struggled to understand basic calculus. Even though I seemingly would sound prejudiced, I am proud in recommending and supporting him for the US teacher of the year.
Mr. Murphy is so deserving of this recognition. He works tirelessly each day for his school not only for the students but for each person he comes in contact with. Always beginning the day offering a smile and a good morning continuing to encourage everyone he comes in contact with during the day. Congratulations!! Mr.Murphy on your nomination for Life Changer of the Year you definitely are a life changer Lake City Middle School.
I DID NOT HAVE MR. MURPHY AS A STUDENT BUT I REMEMBER HIM FROM WHEN I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL AND NOW I WORK WITH HIM .HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN SOMEONE I COULD GO TO AND DISCUSS ISSUES AND CONCERNS WITH . HE HAS NEVER BEEN IMPATIENT OR HAD A CROSS WORD TOWARDS ME . HE ALWAYS MAKES A POINT TO SAY GOOD MORNING TO ME AND MAKES ME FEEL JUST AS IMPORTANT AS THE NEXT PERSON .
Mr. Murphy is a very supportive, respectful and caring Assistant Principal and person!!
Mr. William Murphy is a very educate, church, family member. As long as I have known William he is always helpful in making sure children at school, wherever he work to make sure they instill education first, he would take time to tutor students when they needed it, if he had to come early in the morning he would, if he had to tutor after school he would. I don't know a time he would turn you down if you needed help.
As he took on duties as a Coach, there he was doing something to help kids learn the emphasis of being a great athlete, but he always say your education is first.
William plays a father role to a lot of kids that don't have a father, he try to instill the need of education, students respected him to the utmost advantage to him.
William have a wife and two kids that he have to care for and also take on the role model of being a father to other children to be educated.
I’ve know Mr. Murphy all my life. He is a wonderful person someone whom I consider a role model for not only myself, but all the youth of the community.
William Murphy has always been a big support system for me and my son. We truly love and appreciate him.
I love mr. Murphy's compassion for his job.
I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Murphy for several years. I love how he interacts with the students. He seems to understand their needs and their wants. I think he's awesome!!
Mr. Murphy is a class act all the way around!
