Alicia Rey-Murrell was born in Ann Arbor to Cuban exiles and grew up surrounded by a large, loving family. She says her everyday life was enriched by the presence of her grandparents, aunts, and parents, whom she regards as some of the best people she has ever known.
Rey-Murrell attended Ann Arbor public schools and continues to call the city home, living here with her husband, Lance, and their children Alex and Nati, who are both freshmen: one at Skyline High School and the other at the University of Michigan. She considers her children her greatest accomplishment in life. Her beloved dog, Lola, is her cherished companion and best friend.
Why did you pursue a career in teaching, and what draws you to second grade specifically?
I have always loved kids! I loved being a kid, and they are so much better than adults-they are kind, accepting, authentic, and funny. Second graders are curious little sponges. They are old enough to be independent but young enough to still think you are a rock star!
How’s the school year going so far?
Great! I’m loving my kids, getting to work with my dearest friends, and my team is exceptional.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing my kids grow in confidence and be successful. I love seeing them grow and achieve what they once believed they could not. I am blessed to still be in touch with many of my former students. There is nothing better than having them come back and learning about their dreams and lives.
Any tips for classroom management?
Respect your students and let them know you love them. At the end of the day, they just want to know you care. Take the time to make individual connections and assure them you are on their side, helping them be the best they can be. Be firm but loving, have clear expectations, remain consistent, and find the positive in anything and everything.
How do you balance hands-on, engaging activities with the growing academic demands and longer attention spans of second graders?
I try to use a lot of humor, although I think I think I am funnier than they do sometimes. We incorporate movement, songs in daily lessons. Making personal connections as simple as using their names in a word problem instantly increases engagement.
What’s the most challenging part of your work, and how do you de-stress?
I could do this job 24/7, 365 days a week, and you would still not get it all done. Managing what is most important, and that it is the individuals I get to teach every day. I destress by being with the people I love the most, my family and closest friends. Laughing is the top priority to destress. I love to cook and binge-watch TV shows. Wish I could say working out, but…
How do you maintain patience and positivity during the more challenging moments?
I think of each kid as I do my own. So when patience is tried, I think about how I would want someone to treat Nati or Alex in this situation. I also try to find anything and everything an opportunity for me to grow as a teacher and reflect on how to be better because I can always be better. Plus again, humor. Find a way to find something funny in every situation.
What are some favorite memories of your own time in second grade at Thurston Elementary?
My mom was a room mom, and I loved that. I remember my teacher being a little quirky, but I knew she loved me, and that was the best feeling.
What do you like about working at Haisley?
The best parts of working at Haisley are my colleagues and the students, as well as supportive families. When life gets hard outside of school, I know I can always count on my work family to get me through. The same goes for my students. They give unconditional love to me and make me feel like the celebrity I secretly wanted to be, but knew I would never make it!! Having a strong principal who sees the value in all of us is huge! We are fortunate at Haisley to have families that support ALL students, not just their own.
What would surprise your coworkers to know about you?
Oh, there is not much they don’t know…maybe that I would leave them in a minute to be Melissa McCarthy’s personal assistant or, better yet, be her co-star!
What’s your most-used app on your phone?
Messages.
Favorite meal at your favorite local restaurant:
Frita and Batido de Coco at Frita Batidos.
How do you spend your summers?
Long, slow mornings with my Lola, time with my family, and seeing more family in Miami.
What’s most exciting about your professional life right now? Your personal life?
I am loving getting to work with my awesome team and collaborating with them on our new ELA curriculum. I am enjoying every minute of watching both of my kids experience so many new things and watching them grow into the beautiful individuals they are becoming.
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