Jess McMurray teaches secondary school and college-level mathematics at Soda Springs High School in Soda Springs, ID. Considered an excellent teacher, he is highly regarded for his skills and his relationships with students. He has been teaching for 19 years, 14 of which have been in the Soda Springs community.
Mr. McMurray’s teaching excellence is reflected in his students’ achievements. Annually his students score at or near the top of the Idaho State University student pool in college mathematics, and students in his regular high school classes perform above average in achievement levels for algebra and geometry. Parents applaud Mr. McMurray’s teaching. A parent whose five children participated in his classroom reports that all have attended or will be attending college, including one who is a pre-med student. Another parent acknowledged Mr. McMurray’s success in inspiring his daughter to advance to higher levels. Mr. McMurray is described as passionate about helping and developing youth, whether through teaching, mentoring, or coaching basketball and baseball.
His efforts have highlighted the importance of new technology. For example, a mathematics lesson is now available on CD-ROM or via the school’s Web site to help students stay current with their lessons. Through the Web site that Mr. McMurray designed, parents can access student assignments, homework and test scores, current class grades, and examples of how to complete assignments. As head of the mathematics department, Mr. McMurray directed the revamping of the entire district program to encourage individualized learning. That effort led to the introduction of enhanced programs for middle school students and college-level mathematics courses for first-year high school students.