West Hartford's Top Teacher Kickstarts Pupils' Academic Careers

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The town's top teacher for 2023-24 is an educator who is likely the first smiling face a child sees on their public education journey.

Emily McMurray, a pre-K teacher at the Charter Oak International Academy, was recently named the West Hartford School System's 2023-24 teacher of the year.

The West Hartford resident was chosen last month by a school district committee that had whittled down the field to three finalists.

At the West Hartford Board of Education's last meeting June 6, West Hartford Superintendent of School Paul Vicinus gave further kudos to McMurray.

"Emily is an outstanding representative of an incredible team of educators, who dedicate themselves to inspire and prepare our students," he said. "She's a true champion at creating a personalized learning environment."

Dylan Geisler of Smith STEM School and Eric Feeney of Wolcott Elementary School were the other two finalists, with all three earning school board recognistion May 2.

According to Charter Oak International Acacdemy Principal Georgina Rivera, McMurray's teaching style to the district's youngest pupils immediatelly puts them on a positive path in navigating the school system.

"Your ability to create a nurturing and engaging environment for your students is truly admirable. Your love for teaching shines through in every lesson, activity and interaction," wrote Rivera in announcing McMurray's honor to the Charter Oak community.

"You have gone above and beyond to foster a love of learning in your students, and it is evident in their growth and development under your guidance."

The University of Saint Joseph, which is located in West Hartford and is where McMurray earned her masters degree in 2004, paid homage to her as well.

According to USJ, McMurray has been teaching at Charter Oak since 2016.

Prior to that, she taught either kindergarten or first-grade throughout West Hartford schools, including Norfeldt, Whiting Lane and Wolcott elementary schools, USJ wrote.

In order to be chosen for the award, McMurray had to be nominated, then submit a resume and essay, recommendation letters, a video lesson and be interviewed by the school district's teacher of the year committee.

Wrote Rivera: "Not only have you made a lasting impact on your students, but you have also been an inspiration to your fellow educators."

For the University of Saint Joseph's announcement of McMurray's award, click on this link.

For the minutes of the May 5 West Hartford Board of Education meeting, click on this link.