Hello and welcome from Murphy Elementary School!  My name is Ernest Motley, principal at Murphy, and this is my opportunity to share with you a little about me and even more so about how awesome Murphy is for all who get the chance to experience a school where learning can be FUN!

School leadership is my passion and I love working here in the Northwest School District!  Previously, I also served as a principal in the Green City R-1, Macon R-1, and the Kirksville R-III school districts.  I am married to Marilyn Motley, an elementary music teacher in the Union R-XI School District, and we have three sons.  

The main highlight that I share with people that are asking questions about our school is that Murphy is a wonderful place and that our students and staff are AMAZING! In addition, there is so much more about Murphy...things like our "Leader In Me" school improvement model, our research-based quality Instructional Programs, our amazing PTO organization, and so much more! I invite you to experience Murphy for yourself...we are a school that’s anchored in success and you will love it!  

Hello! My name is Kaily Butz and I am so excited to be the Assistant Principal at Murphy! I am entering my 8th year in education. I began my career teaching in Mississippi and then in 2017, I moved back to Missouri where I joined the Northwest School District. Over the last 8 years I have taught both primary and secondary grade levels. 

I am passionate about educational leadership and supporting students and staff here at Murphy. I began my leadership journey as the Lighthouse Co-Coordinator, Social Media Manager, Murphy Elementary Newsletter Coordinator, Calendar Committee Representative, and Kindness Cart Coordination. Through these leadership opportunities I really found a calling for educational leadership. 

I graduated from Ole Miss with a Bachelor's of Arts in Elementary Education and Special Education. I have a Master's in Educational Theory and Practice from Arkansas State University and a Master's in Administration from Southeast Missouri State University.