The Twin Falls School District is proud to announce that Nancy Murphy, Director of Elementary Programs, has been honored with the Idaho Gem Award from the Idaho Association of School Administrators (IASA). This award recognizes outstanding leadership and contributions of elementary and middle school principals and administrators to the profession of education administration in Idaho.
The Idaho Gem Award is presented annually by the IASA, to a single individual in each nomination category who has demonstrated superior leadership, innovation, and service to students and the profession. Murphy was recognized for her distinguished service, a reflection of her decades-long commitment to improving student learning and supporting educators.
Murphy served as principal at Pillar Falls Elementary since its opening in 2016. Prior to that, she worked as an associate principal at Sawtooth and Perrine Elementary Schools, an instructional coach, and a first-grade teacher at Oregon Trail Elementary in Twin Falls. Before joining the Twin Falls School District, she taught kindergarten, first, and second grades in South Carolina, second grade in Utah, and both fourth and second grades in Filer.
Murphy holds a teaching degree from the University of Utah, master’s degrees from Utah State University and Idaho State University, and an Education Specialist degree from Boise State University.
“Nancy’s leadership is rooted in her belief that every child deserves a high-quality education, and she works tirelessly to ensure our elementary programs meet that promise,” said Dr. Brady Dickinson, superintendent of schools. “Her dedication, vision, and genuine care for students and staff have made a lasting impact across our entire district.”
Murphy received the award during the Idaho Association of School Administrators’ Annual Meeting, where leaders from across the state gathered to celebrate excellence in educational leadership