Musketeer Monday: Andre Murphy

School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work:
I teach U.S. History and Government, Economics, and Participation in Government in the High School.

Years of Experience:
I am in my 30th year at the high school. I started in September, 1996. I'm retiring in June.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
Mr. Baumiller and Mr. Hamm, at Oregon Avenue JHS in Medford, were my football and basketball coaches, as well as my Social Studies teachers. I looked up to them and wanted to be like them.

What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
I love the diversity of cultures we have in this district. I've learned so much about people who came from different backgrounds than me.

What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of the job is hearing from students who come back to visit and share their stories.

What are a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
My greatest moments are the 2018 State Qualifier Track Meet when my girls 4x400 meter relay team shattered the school record and met the qualifying standard for the National Championship meet, and watching the girls basketball team win the county championship in 2017.

Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
The person who has impacted me the most is Richie Bracco. He is the former Social Studies Coordinator, who was very instrumental in my hiring and became my mentor. He took a chance on me 30 years ago. I owe my career to him and will be forever grateful.

What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
My favorite CI event is graduation. The smiles and tears on the faces of the graduates is priceless.

Where did you grow up / go to school?
I was born in the Bronx, and I graduated from Patchogue-Medford High School. I received my Bachelors degree from St. Joseph's University, my first Masters degree from Stony Brook University, and my second Masters degree from Touro College.

Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them!
I enjoy reading John Grisham novels, watching cooking shows, such as "Next Level Chef", and watching the Equalizer movie franchise, with Denzel Washington.

Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
I have two favorite quotes. One is by Mark Twain. He said, "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life." That quote is dedicated to the great students I've taught and coached. The other is from William Butler Yeats. He said, "Think where a man's glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends." That quote is dedicated to the great co-workers/friends I've made at CIHS.

What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
In my spare time, I enjoy reading John Grisham books, game night with my family, and nights by my fire pit.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
If I could, I would have dinner with the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
Before becoming a teacher, I was a college basketball coach. I was hoping to become an NBA coach.

What’s one thing on your bucket list?
I would like to take a cross-country RV trip with my wife, Patricia.