MEET MATT
Former Teacher & Business Leader
I am an experienced former educator.
I have taught in a wide range of different school settings. I worked in a private Christian school, a rural Title 1 school in Eastern Washington, an Alternative High School in Hillsboro, and in Sherwood as an 8th grade Math and Science Teacher. I understand the challenges teachers face. I have seen firsthand what happens when kids don’t feel safe in school. I have seen what happens when kids feel neglected or lack basic needs. I strongly believe in the importance of public education. Public Education gives every kid a chance at a brighter future. Sherwood is a fantastic school district. I want to ensure it continues to be for years to come.
I am an experienced business leader.
I spent several years leading an Amazon EdStart education startup company. Today I work for a law firm as the Front End Lead Software Developer. As a software developer and business leader, I understand the increasing demand for highly skilled workers. Preparing our students for tomorrow is not an easy task. It requires teaching our children critical thinking and exposing them to ideas that require analysis and fact-based analysis. Our teachers have never had a more difficult job. I will do everything I can to support Sherwood Schools as they continue to attract and retain the best teachers in the state.
I understand business and the business of education.
I have a Master's of Business Administration with a specialization in International Business. I studied abroad in Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, and China. I have Graduate teaching certifications in Mathematics and General Sciences. For my undergraduate work, I double majored in Education and Music. I have the required academic background to be a check on the school district. I will be diligent in my role to secure financial stability and avoid future spending imbalances that lead to unnecessary spending cuts.
Who am I?
You might have seen me ride my bike to Middleton Elementary in the morning. When my son joined Sherwood Football, I signed up to help with the chains. I am the ‘old guy’ who trains with his son at Sherwood-Tualatin U.S. World Class Taekwondo. I ski, play video games, camp, and work hard both when I work and when I play. I help when I can and where I can. As your elected school board member I will work hard for you and your family.