Largo High Teacher Honored for Efforts

Jeremiah Murphy is a musician, composer, recording artist and educator.

Now, he has another title.

The Largo High School teacher was named Teacher of the Year for Maryland this fall by the state Teachers' Insurance Plan, a national auto insurance company that was founded in 1992 to provide low-cost coverage to active and retired teachers and their immediate families. He was among 13 teachers across the country who were cited for contributions made to their schools and students.

Murphy, who teaches music and directs the choir at Largo High School, beat out dozens of nominees to win the award, which comes with a $1,000 cash prize and $500 for supplies, equipment or enrichment programs at the winning teacher's school.

"It was a great moment," said Murphy about learning that he had won. "I was totally caught off guard."

Ray Palermo, a spokesman for the insurance company, said the award is meant to recognize teachers who go beyond the call of duty.

"We're looking for teachers that are motivating students, not just teaching them," said Palermo, adding that the company annually looks for someone who is not the "traditional teacher."

Those who know Murphy would probably say he should not have been surprised by his win. Music has been a part of Murphy's life since his childhood.

"I remember being about 5 or 6 years old in youth choir," he said.

At age 9, Murphy began playing piano by ear before beginning formal lessons at age 10. He wrote his first song, a gospel selection, when he was 16. He called the song "Lord, Give Me One More Chance." He also wrote a song -- "When Friends Must Part" -- and performed it at his high school graduation in the District.

Murphy went into teaching 25 years ago. He has taught at Andrew Jackson Middle School, Duval High School and the former Forestville High School -- all in Prince George's County. He has been at Largo High for 18 years teaching vocal music, music theory and music history. Murphy also teaches music theory at workshops across the country.

Murphy is a hands-on teacher at Largo. In addition to instructing students on instruments and voice, he assigns writing projects and often uses part of his classroom time to help students work through their struggles.

"I try to give them a well-rounded education," he said.

Murphy said he likes to see his students flourish, especially those who go on to professional music careers.