New special education teacher Jasmine Murphy joins SCHS to help students prepare for their futures. In her class, Murphy teaches life skills that students would require when living on their own and supporting their own needs.
Originally from the tropical islands of the Philippines, she is excited to bring her teaching experience of 20 years to the campus.
“I was already a special education teacher in the Philippines. Then there came an opportunity in 2007 when the U.S. had a teacher shortage, and some school districts had to hire teachers from the Philippines,” Murphy said.
In addition to the Philippines, Murphy has taught cognitive skills at Cupertino High School and was a part of the administration for the Hollister School District in San Benito.
“Back then, the HR director of Cupertino School District came to the Philippines to interview and hire teachers,” Murphy said. “I was one of the five lucky ones who were hired out of the many applicants.”
After these experiences, Murphy joined SCHS and is enjoying her time teaching. In the future, however, she would love to find different opportunities and try new things.
“Perhaps my next career move is to explore the curriculum and instruction department or even venture to another career other than education,” Murphy said.
For now, Murphy is glad to see students reach their goals and be there for them to teach and hone their life skills.
“(It’s) fulfilling to see them achieve something. That’s why I decided (to teach) high school, and I want to see, what will their future look like?” Murphy said. “I want to support them, especially now that they’re in high school. I want to make sure that they are prepared when eventually, in their future, they’ll be living on their own.”
This year, Murphy is dedicated to helping her students live independently as they transition into adulthood.