Oswego East High School teacher earns national board certification

Oswego East High School English teacher Breda Murphy was recognized by Oswego School District 308 after recently earning the title of National Board Certified teacher and Master Teacher designation on the Illinois Professional Educator License.

A statement from OSD 308 read that Murphy joined Oswego East High School in 2012, and teaches English and dual credit College Communication at OEHS and Oswego High School.

“Being a National Board Certified Teacher is one of the most prestigious credentials a teacher can earn,” the statement read. “Like board certified doctors and accountants, teachers who achieve national board certification have met rigorous standards through intensive study, expert evaluation, self-assessment and peer review. The process can take up to three years to complete.”

While working at OSD 308, Murphy has served as the secretary of the Midwest Media Educators Association and as a member of the Journalism Education Association. Murphy received her bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and her master’s degree in communications from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and her master’s degree in secondary education from Dominican University in River Forest.“There is no career more fulfilling than teaching,” Murphy said. “It is challenging, yet the intrinsic rewards are abundant. I am inspired by my students every day, and I strive to be a teacher who encourages her students to realize their potential.”

Prior to entering the field of teaching, Murphy worked in television news, radio and public relations, having worn many hats including anchor, reporter, producer and production director.

Murphy received the Society of Professional Journalists Mark of Excellence Award, received first place for in-depth radio reporting for “School Discipline: Behind Classroom Doors,” and obtained the Illinois Broadcaster’s Association University Silver Dome Award for Best TV Public Affairs/News Magazine for “The International Experience: A Documentary.”

“Educators who earn the distinction of being National Board Certified Teachers have grown in their profession and their teaching ability to meet the increasing demands of educating our youth,” Superintendent Dr. John Sparlin said.

“Their ability to demonstrate the nation’s highest teaching standards is of great value to the students they serve as well as a beneficial resource to their fellow faculty members.”