The Westwood Public School (WPS) Department has announced the hiring of Dr. John Murray as the new Principal of Westwood High School (WHS). Dr. Murray previously served eight years as Principal of Medway High School where he prided himself on “fostering a safe, supportive and academically challenging environment” for almost 600 students.
Dr. Murray began his teaching career at Brockton High School before becoming an Assistant Principal in the Dedham and Lexington School Systems. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bridgewater State University (BSU) in 2001 and went on to obtain a M.A.T in History from BSU in 2005 before completing the School Administrator Licensure Program at BSU in 2006 and a Doctor of Education degree from Northeastern University in 2014.
“I am honored to join Westwood Public Schools as the next principal of Westwood High School,” Murray said.
“Throughout the process, I was impressed by the pride, care, and commitment to excellence across the school community. I am excited to get to know the students, staff, and families of WHS and to help build on the outstanding work already happening across the school community.”
Dr. Murray’s accomplishments at Medway High School include implementing new programs in English Language Arts and Mathematics. He also expanded access to rigorous coursework by broadening access to Advanced Placement classes and developed a “Challenge by Choice” program, which allows students at Medway High School to take college preparatory electives at the honors level. He said he is proud to have expanded equitable access to learning.
“I’m incredibly excited that Dr. Murray is joining our team in Westwood,” said Superintendent Tim Piwowar. “His veteran leadership will be an asset to our team, and his experience in developing innovation pathways is in alignment with our strategic priority of ensuring authentic and relevant learning experiences for our students.”
Dr. Murray replaces Amy Davenport, who served as Principal at WHS since 2020 and recently accepted a principal position at Hopkinton High School.
Dr. Murray’s first date at WHS is scheduled for July 1.
