Principal
Dr. Esther Seward
I have a passion for children and strive to make a positive impact in the lives of the students I encounter daily. My career as an educator began 20 years ago in the Broward County Public Schools as a 6th grade teacher. I taught middle school for eight years, which includes serving students at Fruit Cove and Pacetti Bay Middle.
Prior to coming to Murray, I served as an Assistant Principal here in St. Johns County for six years at John A. Crookshank, Cunningham Creek, and The Webster School. My administrative experience also extends to the secondary level where I served for three years in Jacksonville, Florida for Duval County Public Schools. In addition, I served in schools at Highlands Middle School, and two years in Northern Virginia for Prince William County Schools at Rippon Middle School.
My educational experience includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Barry University in Miami, Florida; Master’s Degree in Math Education, Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate Degree in Education with a major in Organizational Leadership and a minor in Human Resource Development from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
I am thrilled to be part of a community committed to and invested in the success of our student body. Thank you for the opportunity to serve the students, parents, staff, and community of R. J. Murray Middle School.
One Team!!! No Limits!!
Assistant Principal
Mr. Ryan Velsor
I am proud to be a member of the Bulldog family! It is my belief that every student has the untapped potential to achieve excellence. I strive to provide all students with a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment. With a deep passion for education and student success, I look forward to building a strong relationship with every student, family, and community member. I am committed to providing our students with the best opportunities and resources that can be used to help guide their future. As a former basketball coach, I know what working as a team can accomplish and I look forward to bringing that mindset to the Bulldog community.
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida International University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida. My educational career began as a substitute teacher in St. Johns County. I transitioned into teaching second and third grade at Crookshank Elementary School for five years. I was then given the opportunity to serve as Dean of Students at Palm Valley Academy for four years. Most recently, I have served as Dean of Students at Tocoi Creek High School. I look forward to applying my 12 years of educational experience in SJCSD to better the already incredible Murray Middle School.
As a St. Augustine native and graduate of St. Augustine High School, it is an honor to serve in the same community in which I was raised and will raise my own child in. I hold firm in my belief that the best investment is that of our youth. I am beyond thankful and proud to now serve the students, families, and community members of R.J. Murray Middle School!
Go Bulldogs! One Team! NO Limits!
Assistant Principal
Mr. Marquez Jackson
I am passionate about supporting students so they can excel academically, as well as in athletics and the arts. I believe in fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every student feels empowered to achieve success.I grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, and knew from an early age that I wanted to work in a field where I could help people and make a difference. I found that passion and purpose in public education—working with and supporting students has been the most fulfilling journey of my life. I’ve taught my students a simple principle about success: If you can conceive it and believe it, then you can achieve it!
My educational journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Math Education from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Florida. I later earned both a Master’s Degree in School Administration and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina.
With over 25 years in education, I began my career as a high school math teacher at my alma mater, Stanton College Preparatory High School in Jacksonville. I also taught at FAMU DRS and Rickards High School in Leon County before moving to North Carolina. Over the years, I’ve taught standard and honors courses in Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and International Baccalaureate Math Studies.
For the past 17+ years, I’ve served in various administrative roles in both North Carolina and Florida, including School Services Coordinator, assistant principal at both middle and high school levels, K–8 and elementary school principal, and Director of Student Services. I’ve had the privilege of serving the school communities of Ponte Vedra High School, Fruit Cove Middle School, and Crookshank Elementary School.
I am thrilled to join the dedicated team at R. J. Murray Middle School and proud to be part of the Bulldog Family. It is a true privilege to work alongside such committed students, families, staff, and community members. Together, we will continue to uphold the values that make R. J. Murray Middle School exceptional.
ONE TEAM!!! NO LIMITS!!!
Melanie Csorba – Executive Secretary/Bookkeeper
Dani Fisher – Computer Operator/Records Requests
Enrick Joseph – Maintenance Coordinator
Rhonda Ponce – Cafeteria Manager
Natashia Berry – Dean of Students