ACSA’s 2026 Superintendent/Principal of the Year Gina Murphy has built a model of equity-driven leadership in the Happy Valley Union Elementary School District, ensuring every student has access to the support needed to succeed.

Guided by the belief that equity means meeting individual needs, Murphy has led targeted efforts to close early literacy gaps through grant funding, the addition of a reading specialist, and stronger MTSS/RTI systems. Her focus on access extends beyond academics, expanding enrichment opportunities through an expanded learning opportunities program that addresses barriers such as transportation, staffing and meals, while increasing support for English learners through bilingual hires.

Under her leadership, the district has achieved measurable gains, including a 10 percent increase in English language arts performance on CAASPP, the highest in the county. Murphy has embedded data-driven practices into instruction through the adoption of NWEA MAP assessments and a multiyear literacy plan aligned with systemwide improvement.

Murphy also prioritizes school climate and student well-being. Through PBIS, restorative practices and social-emotional learning, she has fostered an inclusive environment where students’ voices are supported. She also launched schoolwide rallies that bring students and staff together to celebrate character, recognize achievements, and build a shared sense of community. Initiatives such as HOPE Matters have contributed to reduced discipline referrals and improved academic outcomes.

A career-long champion of continuous improvement, Murphy invests in professional learning and collaborative leadership, empowering staff and strengthening instructional alignment. Her steady, transparent leadership, in addition to the depth of her experience in education, has cultivated a culture of trust, innovation and shared responsibility — delivering lasting impact for students, educators and the broader school community.

Murphy has been a member of ACSA since 2013. Beginning in 2016, she served as an ACSA Leadership Coach, in addition to participating in numerous ACSA networking and learning events.

“In every way, Gina Murphy exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated, thoughtful, and effective educational leader,” wrote teacher Shannon Spencer, in a recommendation letter. “Her hard work, unwavering commitment, and genuine care for our staff, students, and broader community make her truly deserving of this recognition.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? A common piece of advice is to not take things personally. I was talking with a mentor who told me, “How can you not? You put your heart and soul into what you do!” That was validating because it’s true. Now I don’t take things “emotionally.” I rationalize criticism and see what I can learn from it. It goes both ways, I can’t take all the credit either. There are many people who are part of my successes and we work together through the failures.

What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? Early on in my teaching career, my admin talked about work-life balance. Rather than work late every night, I chose one night per week and stayed late. I had a “stay late” basket that I would put work in to complete on that night. That way I had solid, uninterrupted time to complete work. This made it go faster and tasks actually got done in one swoop!

What would people be surprised to learn about you? I love being on or near the water. Lakes, ocean, streams, rivers … It doesn’t matter. It relaxes me and helps me get grounded. I love going on a patio boat ride on Lake Shasta with friends, family and my dog, Gypsy.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your current position? You mean overcoming. The combined position of superintendent/principal in a small district is so tough. You wear all the hats! Time management, trying to be in all places so no one feels overlooked. I feel like the instructional coach piece has been the biggest challenge, and it is the part I like the best!

How has ACSA supported you in your career? Throughout my career I have participated in many workshops and professional development. The admin coaching certification was very beneficial as an admin. I have also used coaching opportunities on a couple of occasions, which has been helpful as well, especially when in a new position. Being the coachee also helped me learn to be a better coach for others. I have also participated in ACSA Academies and contract support.

The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “You Belong Here: Leadership for Every Student.” What does belonging look like for you, your staff or your students? For me, belonging looks like trust. No one can get it all right all the time; trusting that you can be human (and yourself) in your role and continue to move forward with the staff to provide the best place for kids gives me a sense of belonging.