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Introduction:
Hello, my name is Robin Murphy. I am a second-year Special Education Teacher at Cabell Midland High School in Ona, West Virginia. I am the mother of six children and four fur babies. When not at work, you will usually find me cuddled up in a recliner with one of my children and a dog or two. I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and going to the beach.
My Educational Journey and Personal Goals:
I first began my college journey directly out of high school in 1998. Life happened, and I withdrew midway through my second semester at Marshall University. Throughout the years, I tried returning to school a handful of times, but something always prevented me from earning my degree. Frequently changing my major did not help my situation. Finally, in 2013, I earned my Associate of Arts degree. This was an encouraging step in my journey, but it would be almost ten years before my educational adventure continued.
In 2023, I realized I was close to earning a Regents Bachelor of Arts. Even though I didn't fully understand what doors this would open for me, I began working toward the degree. In April 2023, I graduated from Marshall University with a Regents Bachelor of Arts, but I didn't want to stop there.
At a job fair hosted by Marshall University, I spoke to a representative from Cabell County Schools. This was when I learned there were alternative programs and options to earn a teaching degree with a bachelor's degree in any field. After considerable research, I completed an Alternative Teaching Certificate Program through the American Board and earned my teaching certificate in just a month and a half.
I began working as a special education teacher at Cabell Midland High School in August 2023. Initially, I was a little wary of going into special education, but I have become very passionate about it. I know it sounds cliche, but it can be really rewarding.
When I started this program, I aimed to earn a master's degree. Being a first-generation college student meant this would be a true achievement for me. Also, it would help me gain more respect. I felt embarrassed after waiting so long to finish school and have a real career. In high school, I was near the top of my class, with many opportunities waiting for me. Even though I love my children more than anything and wouldn't change a thing, I often felt like a failure. I would think back to all the wasted opportunities and how things could have been if I hadn't dropped out when I did. Earning a bachelor's degree was a huge step for me, but I knew I would only be happy if I earned a master's degree as well.
My Professional Goals:
Professionally, I knew that having a master's degree would increase my pay. Also, I have an incredible love of learning. I take all the professional development and extra certification programs I can fit into my schedule. My experience has taught me never to give up that love of learning. Even taking a small break can lead you further astray than you realize, which for me meant continuing my education without taking any time off from school.
I hoped to learn new ways to help my students throughout the master's degree program, which I started at the same time I began teaching. I felt overwhelmed and out of place at school. I hoped the master's program would help me learn new teaching strategies and classroom management skills that would help me become a valued educator and more confident in the classroom.
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