The Aiken County Public School District (ACPSD) has recently named John Murphy as the new director of maintenance and operations, beginning in the 2024-25 school year.
“I’m very honored and proud that the district leadership and school board have given me the opportunity to serve as the Director of Maintenance and Operations,” said Murphy. “Their confidence in me is most humbling. I will do my very best to ensure that our school district facilities are maintained properly and promote student and employee success in every way possible.”
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Murphy began his education career as a chemistry, physics, and physical science teacher and assistant athletic coach in Edgefield County schools. He moved over to Aiken County schools in 2002 as a teacher and coach at Aiken High School. Murphy was promoted to assistant principal of Ridge Spring-Monetta Elementary-Middle School in 2006, and he moved over in 2007 to be an assistant principal at North Augusta High School. He became the Paul Knox Middle School principal in 2009 and the North Augusta High School principal in 2013.
During his time at North Augusta High School, he oversaw the renovation and expansion of the school. The graduation rate increased to a record high of 93% in 2016 and has maintained a graduation rate of 87% or above since. North Augusta High School became an Advanced Placement (AP) Magnet School, and students’ scores on the test increased. There have been several state champion wins.
“It has been an incredible honor serving the North Augusta community as principal at PKMS and NAHS,” said Murphy. “I am proud of our academic, artistic, and athletic accomplishments. I am proud of our beautiful new school. I am most proud of our former students, teachers, and staff for what they’ve become.”
Jennifer Hart, chief officer of human resources and administration, said Murphy has helped create a positive environment where employee retention is strong and students are succeeding.
“I am passionate about the importance of well-kept facilities and how they directly correlate with student and employee achievement and success,” said Murphy. “I’m honored to serve in this capacity.”
