Lauren Murphy joined The Grace School in 2020 bringing with her years of experience both as a special education teacher and implementer of child-specific Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs. She served as a lead teacher at The Grace School prior to being named Grace School Academic Director in 2021. 

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with an endorsement in Special Education for preschool through 12th-grade. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith (UAFS) and received special recognition as the UAFS Intern of the Year.

Inspiring Experiences

Lauren continues to look up to her 12th-grade English teacher and 3rd-grade teacher. She recalls, “[My 12th grade teacher] was the first person to tell me I would make an amazing teacher! At the time I thought she was crazy. But she really showed me I had the potential to help make a difference in other people's lives. I also had a fantastic 3rd-grade teacher who sang these silly little songs and dances at the end of the day. She made a lasting impression on me and that is something I hope to be able to do for other children and families.”

A Heart for Service

Lauren was drawn to TEAM and The Grace School, in particular, as the school combines her interests in both academic instruction and behavior analytics. She enjoys working with colleagues who share her vision of collaborative treatment and individualized goals for each student. She believes that through the work she does she is not only helping shape students, but also, their families and our community.

Lauren Murphy has always had a strong drive to help others. This inspired her to become a teacher. She soon discovered that she most enjoyed working with children with disabilities. She embraces the challenge of supporting students through their behaviors. She notes, “It is a treasure to see the ‘light bulb’ moments that each student experiences.”

Personal Interests

When not at work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, staying physically active, watching movies/TV, and occasional crafting.