As an educator, you have the power

to leave a legacy by . . .


Making students’ learning experiences personal and authentic


Ensuring that the culture around you is personal and authentic


Developing and nurturing personal and authentic relationships


Being personal and authentic







In Personal & Authentic, Thomas C. Murray reveals the power of designing awe-inspiring experiences that are grounded in relationships and learner-centered by design. Inherently relevant and contextualized, it is this kind of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Be bold. Be fearless. Be proud. Be you.

Your story is not finished yet.



"After you read this book, you will become a better teacher and leader—and if not, you might want to read it again!"

—Salome Thomas-EL, award-winning principal, speaker, and author

"One of the most helpful, heartfelt, and unassuming stories I’ve ever read."

—Brad Gustafson, EdD, national distinguished principal and best-selling author

"The story always wins. The most impactful learning has always been personal and authentic. Murray does a masterful job of weaving both the gripping story of educators and the opportunities for them to increase their impact on students."

—Joe Sanfelippo, PhD, superintendent, author, and speaker

"Teachers will finish this book feeling inspired and empowered to continue the important work we are called to do."

—Luisa Palomo Hare, kindergarten teacher, 2012 Nebraska Teacher of the Year