Meet the Principal
Welcome to Marie Murphy!
My name is Elena Ryan, and I am honored to begin my sixth year as principal of Marie Murphy School. Serving this incredible community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Over the past five years, I have watched our students, staff, and families build something truly special together—a school where high expectations, meaningful relationships, and a genuine sense of belonging are at the heart of everything we do.
Before joining Avoca District 37, I spent eleven years teaching at Attea Middle School in Glenview District 34, followed by two years as a district coordinator and instructional coach. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Music Education from DePaul University and my Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University. Prior to becoming principal at Marie Murphy, I served as the assistant principal of Harper and Romona Elementary Schools in Wilmette District 39.
As both an educator and the parent of two children, I understand the trust families place in their schools. That partnership is something I value deeply. At Marie Murphy, we believe middle school should be a place where students are known, challenged, supported, and inspired to discover who they are and who they can become.
Our staff is committed to helping every student grow academically while also developing confidence, resilience, empathy, and leadership. Whether students are excelling in the classroom, performing on stage, competing in athletics or Science Olympiad, serving their community, or discovering a new passion, we want every child to feel connected and empowered.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Marie Murphy. I look forward to partnering with your family and welcoming you into our Viking community.
Welcome to Marie Murphy
Marie Murphy School is a nationally recognized middle school serving approximately 220 students in grades 6–8 in Wilmette, Illinois. While we are proud of our academic achievements, what truly sets us apart is our commitment to knowing every student as an individual and helping them thrive both academically and personally.
Our mission is to inspire curiosity, nurture diversity, and cultivate academic growth in our students. We believe that middle school is about much more than grades—it's about helping students discover their strengths, find their voice, and build the skills they need for future success.
Students learn in a collaborative environment where rigorous academics are paired with meaningful relationships and innovative learning experiences. Our dedicated teachers work together to ensure every student receives the support and challenge they need through engaging instruction, responsive teaching practices, and a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
Marie Murphy is also a remarkably diverse learning community, with students representing more than twenty nationalities. We celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences each student brings, creating an environment where respect, empathy, and belonging are woven into daily life.
Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to explore their interests through award-winning programs in music, theater, athletics, clubs, leadership, and nationally recognized Science Olympiad teams. We believe learning happens everywhere, and we encourage students to take risks, embrace challenges, and pursue excellence in whatever passions they discover.
Our school community is guided by our BRAVE values:
- Be Kind
- Respect the school community
- Act with integrity
- Value Diverse Perspectives
- Empathize with and care for others
These values shape our culture and reflect the qualities we hope every Viking carries long after leaving Marie Murphy.
Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning for another exciting school year, we are grateful to have you as part of our community. We look forward to partnering with you as we continue to learn, grow, and achieve great things together.
Sincerely,
Elena Ryan
Principal, Marie Murphy School
[email protected]