Meet Mrs. Murphy
Alma Mater: Missouri State University
Degree(s): Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and Child Development, Teaching Certifications in Early Childhood Education and Special Education
Years of Experience: 22
Years at The Summit: 2
Born and raised on a dairy farm in Lebanon, Missouri, Michelle Murphy developed a strong work ethic that carried her through college at Missouri State University, where she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Child Development. She later pursued graduate studies to obtain teaching certifications in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. With 15 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and 7 years in Special Education, Michelle has cultivated expertise in early childhood assessment, literacy, mathematics, and behavior intervention. Her favorite part of teaching is seeing the spark of understanding in a child’s eyes when they attain a new concept.
Michelle is married to her wonderful husband, Russ Murphy, the Department Head of Technical Trades at Ozarks Technical Community College. Together, they are proud parents of five amazing adult children, six grandchildren, and are eagerly anticipating the arrival of identical twin grandsons in January. Recently, they fulfilled a “Bucket List” dream by moving to the lake. Outside of teaching, Michelle enjoys painting, gardening, baking, and spending time with family and friends.