Mary Ellen Murray
High School Art Teacher
Master of Fine Arts in Studio Teaching, Boston University; Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration, Rhode Island School of Design
Mary Ellen Murray has been a certified art instructor for more than 25 years. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Education from Boston University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design, where she studied directly under Chris Van Allsburg, author and illustrator of The Polar Express and Jumanji. She now serves as a High School Art Teacher at Missouri Connections Academy, bringing her extensive fine arts and teaching background to her students every day.
Teaching Experience
Mrs. Murray taught for 15 years in Central Florida as an art instructor. During that time her students won Best of Show for eight consecutive years, achieved a 100% passing rate on the AP National Board portfolio exam, and many received scholarship acceptance to top art colleges. She is also a past Teacher of the Year award recipient and was featured in Orlando Magazine as one of the top art teachers in Central Florida.
Professional Background
She holds professional educator certifications in eight different states and has been with Missouri Connections Academy for two years. Her experience in both fine arts and education shapes the supportive, skill‑building environment she provides for her students.
Fun Fact
Mrs. Murray is married to former Walt Disney Feature Animation artist David Murray, whose artwork helped to create Disney classics like Mulan, Tarzan, Lilo and Stitch, Brother Bear, Princess and the Frog, and more.