Murnie Leary is the Director of Hingham Nursery School and has lived in Hingham since she was two years old. When she's not at Hingham Nursery School educating our littlest hingham-mites, you might find her on the golf course or boxing - don't mess with Murnie. Truth be told, Murnie Leary was my (Hilary's) nursery school teacher at St. John's Church back in the day. She is humble and dedicated and we're grateful she calls Hingham home.
When did you found Hingham Nursery School and what made you want to start it?
Hingham Nursery School was established in 1966 as St. John’s Community Nursery School. Together with our dedicated parents and community support, we designed and built our beautiful school in 2006. I started teaching at St. John’s Nursery School in 1978, and became director in 1990.
What do you love most about teaching Hingham’s youngest future scholars?
I love being a part of their first school experience. Seeing them growing in confidence and love learning.
How long have you lived in Hingham?
I’ve lived in Hingham since I was 2.
What do you love most about Hingham?
I love that many people who live here participate in all aspects of the town!
Favorite local spot?
On the water.
Do you have a favorite house in Hingham?
I couldn’t choose one! Love the houses in downtown, Center Hingham, Main Street and Crow Point.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
Go up in a helicopter!
What is a favorite place you have traveled to and why?
Paris, everything about being there was special!
Do you have a hidden talent?
[Because Murnie’s modest, I’m answering for her. Debbie Edmundson, administrative assistant, HNS.] Murnie’s hidden talent is that she remembers every detail about everyone she meets. At school, that means that each family is known personally to her, and all feel welcome and included.
When you’re not running HNS, what do you love to do?
Walk, golf, read and box.
What's one thing people may not know about you?
Pretty much what you see it what you get!
When presented with two choices, when did you make a decision that changed that course of your life?
When I had an opportunity to teach nursery school or be at home, 40 years ago! Nursery school has been a huge part of our lives. It has been a wonderful!
Murnie will always be there for you, supportive and modest in a quiet way. Admired how with the support of community she moved forward, worked hard to create Hingham Nursey School when St. John’s was no longer available. Also love that it’s called “Nursey School.” In about 2000 in San Francisco at the Boston Bar with husband and Son Will, start talking with 2 young men, from Hingham, went to St. John’ s had Murnie.
Just happened upon the Hingham anchor site. Enjoying reading stories. Happened to see picture of Murnie.