Melvina Murray
Melvina Murray, a second-grade teacher at Minot Air Force Base's Dakota Elementary School, has been selected to receive the President's Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
Dakota Elementary School Principal Kathryn Lennertz nominated Mr. Murray for his efforts in the classroom and for always doing the little extra things to ensure students are set up for success.
“I am so excited and honored by your hard work.” Murray said. “But it's really nice to be recognized.”
A ceremony to present Murray with the award is scheduled for May 8 at the State Capitol in Bismarck. Governor Doug Burgum and North Dakota Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Beisler will also be in attendance.
Murray said her nomination may have something to do with how she approaches her teaching and makes teaching standards more engaging and exciting for herself and her students. Ta.
For example, students enjoy what Murray calls dress-up and acting. “Transforming the classroom.”
“Some days, we dress up as doctors and practice word problems, or I don overalls and a cowgirl hat and practice arrays at the farmers market, or I dust off my military uniform and help the students. We also participate in Place Value Boot Camp.” Murray said.
She also believes she was nominated for her ability to use fun and engaging teaching methods and math strategies to connect with students and get them more interested in subjects they struggle with. .
Another activity the students looked forward to was a mock trial where the Big Bad Wolf would decide whether he was guilty or not guilty of a crime. Mr. Murray wore his master's degree graduation gown to act as a judge, and two students dressed up as lawyers. The remaining students served as jurors.
To tie the mock trial into the classroom, Murray had students write persuasive essays about wolves and why they are guilty and why they are innocent.
Mr. Lennertz submitted his nomination in August 2023. Mr. Murray then submitted an application containing a series of essays on his five aspects that make up the award. Their dimensions are:
– Learn content appropriate to the grade level being taught.
– The use of effective teaching approaches that are appropriate for the students in the classroom and support student learning.
– Effective use of student assessment to assess, monitor and improve student learning.
– Reflective practice and lifelong learning to improve teaching and student learning.
– Opportunity, access and leadership in education inside and outside the classroom.
Murray's essay totaled 33 pages.
Another part of the application process included creating a 30-minute video of a math lesson to demonstrate the five dimensions.
“It's not a one-and-done process. It took months of writing, webinars, and lesson videos.” Murray said. “It’s about the community and how we engage with it, the curriculum and how we as teachers support the school district and how we support the state.”
The President's Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education has existed since 1983 and is the highest honor bestowed on educators. This award is given to K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science teachers across the United States.
Murray has always seen school as more than just a place to learn, but a place to find yourself. “A shelter, a safe place where caring teachers and staff have made a huge difference.”
She also became a teacher because she wanted to provide the same safe space for her students. She has been a teacher for seven years, four of which were spent at Dakota Elementary School. Her husband is an active duty airman stationed at the base.
“Ever since I was in kindergarten, I had a strong desire to become a teacher.” Murray said. “Their faith in me has been the driving force behind my journey to where I am today. I want to give back and become a teacher who does everything for my students. It's not just about imparting knowledge; it's about being a guide and helping students find their own path in life.”
