Congratulations to our Educator of the Month – DR. LIZ CONNOLLY!!

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Liz Connolly, our well-deserved WTA Educator of the Month! A Woburn graduate, Liz Connolly has returned to become an educator at WMHS. Liz started by subbing in 2008 and a career spanning paraprofessional work, middle school, and now the high school, Dr. Connolly truly embodies what it means to give back to the community that shaped her.

Liz sees teaching as a public service and our schools as the heartbeat of the community. She reminds us that public education is one of our greatest equalizers—and that believing in students’ potential is also a way of safeguarding our democracy. She realizes how lucky she is to be able to work with young adults, as she puts it, “Without a doubt the people are the best part of this job, it’s still profoundly human in an increasingly automated world. I get to spend my days working with young adults who are discovering who they are and what they want their life to be, there’s a lot of joy in that.”

She also must recognize the passion of her colleagues. Education is a difficult field and despite the the negative rhetoric, she credits her colleagues for being “passionate, and creative adults who care deeply about the kids and community. I am honored to work alongside them.” Her passion for history, her deep care for students, and her appreciation for colleagues shines through in everything she does.

Known for treasuring letters from former students, celebrating “Tanner Pride,” and bringing a profoundly human touch to education, Liz credits her colleagues and mentors while continuing to inspire the next generation. We are so proud to honor an educator who shows up every day for kids, for colleagues, and for the future of our community.

She would like to thank them all for nominating her and the ones who voted for her as well. In response to winning she said, “It’s humbling. I have many many many (keep going) colleagues that are far more deserving than me. They show up every day and make amazing things happen. I can think of no greater honor than being nominated by those I respect the most, there are so many who are educators of the month every day of the month, they just didn’t get to fill out this form! Truly though, I’m honored and appreciative.”

Congratulations, Dr. Connolly! Thank you for all you do for Woburn Public Schools.

Let’s hear what her colleague said about her:

“Liz is a dynamo at WMHS. She is a true educational leader who looks after those under her care as well as the students in her classroom. Her creative lessons inspire students to learn. As a department head, she is a voice of reason. She sets her goals high and reaches them every time! She does all this with a smile, a kind approach and a listening ear! Dr Liz definitely needs to be honored with this recognition.”

Congratulations to our Paraprofessional of the Month – JANE MURRAY

We are proud to recognize Jane Murray for her dedication and commitment to our students and school community. Jane has worked in education for four years and finds the best part of her job to be working alongside amazing teachers.

Jane especially enjoys working with high school students, where she gets to witness their growth and development in an environment full of opportunities. She values how students engage in classes, sports, clubs, and teams, making every day exciting with successes to celebrate. Jane also highlights the kindness and acceptance created by the supportive staff, teachers, and community .

To Jane, working in education means empowering students to become self-sufficient, hardworking individuals who care about themselves and others. One of her most cherished memories is on graduation day, when staff line up to cheer on students as they walk out—an unforgettable moment that captures the impact of her work.

Jane shared that being selected as Paraprofessional of the Month was a pleasant surprise, and we couldn’t agree more that this recognition is well deserved. Outside of school, she enjoys local live theatre, music performances, and sporting events.

Thank you, Jane, for all you do to support students and strengthen our school community. Congratulations on this well-earned honor!

Don’t forget to give Jane a big CONGRATULATIONS!!

Let’s see what her colleagues (ALL EIGHT!!) who nominated her had to say:

“Jane is a constant force in and out of our classrooms. She’s attentive, energetic, down-to-Earth, and constantly humorous with our staff and students. Her dedication to Woburn goes beyond these four walls, too, as she’s a staple of the Woburn Boys and Girls Club and city as well. Here’s and cheers to her!”

“Jane is enthusiastic and encouraging from early in the morning until after the school day ends. She recently dressed up as Beaker to cheer on and support the Science Team competition. She donated a whole basket of supplies to give to the Freshman class in order to use as a fundraiser. Jane is full of facts and jokes and ways to connect with students and coworkers including handing out little trinkets and enriching our lives with cultural references from a variety of decades.”

“Jane always goes above and beyond for not only the students in her care but for any student who needs a lift. She faces each day with a positive attitude and her infectious laugh. One can’t help but smile when in her presence. Last night, she even returned to school after hours to support the science team! She has donated supplies for raffle baskets, snacks for the kids, food pantry items and any else that WMHS is in need of. Our school is a better place because of her presence.”

“How has Jane not won this award every month? She is the GOAT! She is such a breath of fresh air, warm and hilarious and witty and reliable.”

“Jane is so passionate about science and encourages students to actively participate in science team.”

“Incredibly generous and warm human being”

“Very involved and engaged in the classroom. Great sense of humor.”

“Above and beyond the call of duty in the science department.”