James E. Murray
James Murray came to Branford High School in 1969 to teach social studies. When he retired, thirty six year later, he left having founded and directed the East Shore Region Adult and Continuing Education program (ERACE). In each position he occupied along the way Jim brought- his entire being to bear. He always went above and beyond normal expectations when it came to doing his job.
Originally from Easton, MA, Jim and his wife, Inge, settled in Guilford where they raised their sons, Mark and Michael. With his B.A. from Bridgewater State, M.A. from State College at Westfield and later a 6th Year from Southern CT, Jim carved out his career and left his mark. An outstanding classroom teacher, Jim taught a variety of courses in the Social Studies/U.S. History field. His courses were both challenging and thought provoking. His students were encouraged to stretch their boundaries and to grow, both in skill and in confidence.
In 1979, Jim left the classroom to move into a more administrative track. Building on his position as Director of Branford Adult Education, Jim worked to expand and create a more professional Adult Education program. Under his inspiration and leadership Adult Education moved from a few course offerings to a full-fledged school with enrichment, GED, citizenship and high school diploma programs. Jim was able to reach out to the adult student who wanted to complete school as well as those who wanted to retain and acquire new skills. He was able to work with teenagers having difficulty in a traditional school setting and individuals who wanted to learn new enrichment activities.
Jim's energy and dedication led to the formation of ERACE. As director, Jim now had to meld the educational needs and strategies of Branford, North Branford, Guilford, Madison and Clinton into one effective unit. This expanded venture offered greater opportunities for students but also new challenges for dealing with five separate political and funding entities. Jim was able to forge a vibrant and solid unit that continues to enhance the educational life of the entire shoreline.
While working as an educator in Branford, Jim also served his country. For twenty-five years he served in the Air National Guard, achieving the honor of Senior NCO of the year in 1992. His commitment to his profession manifested itself with Jim serving as an officer and on the Board of Directors of the Branford Education Association and the Connecticut Association of Adult Continuing Education.
Having retired from his professional life in 2005, Jim can now spend time concentrating on family, especially his granddaughter Gillian, and reflecting on the tremendous impact he has made on Branford and its neighbors. Branford's Education Hall of Fame is honored to be able to induct James E. Murray into its ranks.
Originally from Easton, MA, Jim and his wife, Inge, settled in Guilford where they raised their sons, Mark and Michael. With his B.A. from Bridgewater State, M.A. from State College at Westfield and later a 6th Year from Southern CT, Jim carved out his career and left his mark. An outstanding classroom teacher, Jim taught a variety of courses in the Social Studies/U.S. History field. His courses were both challenging and thought provoking. His students were encouraged to stretch their boundaries and to grow, both in skill and in confidence.
In 1979, Jim left the classroom to move into a more administrative track. Building on his position as Director of Branford Adult Education, Jim worked to expand and create a more professional Adult Education program. Under his inspiration and leadership Adult Education moved from a few course offerings to a full-fledged school with enrichment, GED, citizenship and high school diploma programs. Jim was able to reach out to the adult student who wanted to complete school as well as those who wanted to retain and acquire new skills. He was able to work with teenagers having difficulty in a traditional school setting and individuals who wanted to learn new enrichment activities.
Jim's energy and dedication led to the formation of ERACE. As director, Jim now had to meld the educational needs and strategies of Branford, North Branford, Guilford, Madison and Clinton into one effective unit. This expanded venture offered greater opportunities for students but also new challenges for dealing with five separate political and funding entities. Jim was able to forge a vibrant and solid unit that continues to enhance the educational life of the entire shoreline.
While working as an educator in Branford, Jim also served his country. For twenty-five years he served in the Air National Guard, achieving the honor of Senior NCO of the year in 1992. His commitment to his profession manifested itself with Jim serving as an officer and on the Board of Directors of the Branford Education Association and the Connecticut Association of Adult Continuing Education.
Having retired from his professional life in 2005, Jim can now spend time concentrating on family, especially his granddaughter Gillian, and reflecting on the tremendous impact he has made on Branford and its neighbors. Branford's Education Hall of Fame is honored to be able to induct James E. Murray into its ranks.