Mr. Murrell
Mr. Murrell serves as the Safety & Security Lead at Ridgeview Classical School, where he oversees a proactive security program designed to protect students, staff, and families while preserving the warm, welcoming culture that makes Ridgeview unique. His philosophy is simple: security should be visible through confidence, professionalism and service, not intimidation. Every family who walks through Ridgeview's doors should feel both safe and valued.
Justin brings decades of real-world experience to this role. He served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Fife and USS Camden before beginning a career in public safety. Following military service, he worked as a correctional officer and then spent more than 12 years in law enforcement, serving in a variety of assignments including bicycle patrol, undercover narcs, riot team operations, special investigations unit and as a School Resource Officer. In addition to his work at Ridgeview, he has serves as a mentor w/ Denver Rescue Mission, sponsor, interventionist and health and wellness coach within the community.
While Justin does not teach a traditional classroom course, he plays an active role in developing and supporting Ridgeview's culture of safety through staff training, emergency preparedness, security planning, and community partnership. His experience in military service, school safety, law enforcement, crisis response, and leadership provides the foundation for the comprehensive security program he leads today.
Justin and his family relocated to Colorado specifically because they believed in the mission of classical Christian education and found their home at Ridgeview Classical School. After exploring classical schools across multiple states and building a home in Colorado, he originally had no intention of returning to a traditional workday. However, when invited to help implement Mr. Anderson's vision of "safety and security with a smile," he recognized an opportunity to serve a community he deeply believed in. He considers it a privilege to help create an environment where students can learn, grow, and flourish with confidence.
Above all, Justin is passionate about family, service, and community. He is honored to partner with Ridgeview families in helping ensure that every child learns in an environment that is secure, welcoming, and intentionally designed to support their success.
Q & A with Mr. Murrell
Where were you born and where have you lived?
I was born and raised in Washington State. During my time in the U.S. Navy, I spent years traveling the world and living on a ship, including deployments throughout South America and the Persian Gulf, where home was often at sea. After my service and travel, my family chose to put down roots in Colorado and become part of the Ridgeview community.
Where did you attend university or college?
My education comes from military service, law enforcement, professional training, and real-world experience. Over the years, I've been fortunate to learn from some incredible thought leaders, instructors, and mentors who helped shape the way I lead and serve today.
What kind of reading do you most enjoy doing?
I enjoy reading nonfiction, especially books on faith, leadership, personal growth, health and wellness, recovery, and human behavior.
What are the small essentials that make life more comfortable?
Family, community, coffee, and chapstick.
What are your favorite snacks?
Pepperoni sticks, ketone and pretty much anything from Costco.
What do you do to unwind?
I enjoy spending time with my family, working out, traveling, podcasts, and investing in personal growth. Nothing beats quality time with my people.
How could a parent volunteer help you most?
The best way parents can help is by staying involved. Strong schools are built by strong communities, and when parents engage, volunteer, build relationships, and support the mission of the school, everyone benefits, especially the students.
