Heather Murray
Minneapolis,MN
Summary
Dynamic educational leader with a focus on servant leadership, fostering community connections, and promoting diversity and inclusion with over two decades of experience in instructional leadership and curriculum enhancement. Known for building positive relationships and engaging families, contributing to improved student outcomes and a collaborative school culture.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Elementary Principal on Special Assignment
Stillwater Area School District
Stillwater, MN
07.2025 - Current
- Provide districtwide leadership for Gifted and Talented (GATE) programming, ensuring equitable access, alignment with state requirements, and consistency across schools.
- Designed and cohesive K-5 gifted service model, including self-contained and clustered settings with site based supports..
- Build trust with families and district partners through transparent communication, responsive problem-solving, and collaborative decision-making.
- Lead the planning and opening of two new elementary schools, helping to coordinate staffing, curriculum, operations, and community engagement to ensure strong, student-centered launches.
- Establish a clear vision for school culture, instructional practices, and collaboration that reflects district values while meeting the unique needs of each school community.
Elementary Principal
Stillwater Area School District
Stillwater, MN
07.2002 - 07.2025
- Developed and implemented curriculum enhancements to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Led professional development workshops for staff, fostering collaboration and instructional growth.
- Established a positive school culture through community outreach programs and family involvement initiatives.
- Evaluated academic performance data to inform strategic planning and resource allocation decisions.
- Implemented MTSS and PLC systems to support differentiated instruction and continuous improvement.
Elementary Assistant Principal
Madison Metropolitan School District
Madison, WI
08.2001 - 07.2002
- Supported school operations, instructional leadership, and student services in an urban elementary school.
- Led implementation early literacy strategies and positive behavior supports.
- Collaborated on staff supervision, data analysis, and parent engagement efforts.
Elementary Teacher
Madison Metropolitan School District
Madison, WI
08.1996 - 06.2001
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding and retention of core subjects.
- Implemented classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with parents and guardians to address student progress and concerns effectively.
Education
Master of Science -
Master of Science - Educational Leadership
Cardinal Stritch University
Madison, WI06-2001
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
University of Wisconsin, Stout
Menomonie, WI08-1993
Skills
Servant Leadership
Student-Centered
Diversity & Inclusion
Community Connections
Building Positive Relationships
Verbal & Written Communication
Instructional Leadership
Parent-Teacher Communication
Timeline
Elementary Principal on Special Assignment
Stillwater Area School District
07.2025 - Current
Elementary Principal
Stillwater Area School District
07.2002 - 07.2025
Elementary Assistant Principal
Madison Metropolitan School District
08.2001 - 07.2002
Elementary Teacher
Madison Metropolitan School District
08.1996 - 06.2001
Master of Science -
Master of Science - Educational Leadership
Cardinal Stritch University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
University of Wisconsin, Stout