(Publisher’s note: This is another nomination by a reader for a featured teacher, a series of stories about the teachers in the Chelsea District Schools. If you would like to nominate a teacher, please email me at [email protected].)
By Lisa Carolin
One of the many ways Chelsea High School teacher Matt Pedlow distinguishes himself is by his popularity among students.
Principal Mike Kapolka says, “Matt has consistently been voted on by our senior classes as a faculty escort for graduation.”
Pedlow is in his ninth year at the high school and teaches Advanced Placement Microeconomics, AP Macroeconomics, Economics, Civil War, and freshman Civics. One highlight of teaching for Pedlow is when his Civil War class takes its annual field trip to both Antietam and Gettysburg.
But his favorite part of teaching is interacting with students.
“We are fortunate in that we teach great kids who have a tremendous amount of support at home,” said Pedlow. “I really enjoy getting to know the kids in my classes, especially since I teach a lot of seniors. I love being part of their senior years, and it’s wonderful being with the kids in the spring as they prepare for graduation.”
“Matt could teach the phone book and kids would sign up for his class,” said Kapolka. “He brings a deep understanding and love for Economics and is able to relate it to students’ everyday lives.”
Pedlow grew up in western New York and attended college at SUNY Oswego graduating with a degree in Communications. He worked at a ski resort in Colorado, then moved to Charleston, SC and attended The Citadel where he graduated with a Master’s degree in Education. He and his wife moved to Michigan in 1999 and to Chelsea in 2002.
As far as the biggest challenges facing education go, Pedlow says, “It’s the role of technology and its future ability to undermine the typical educational experience. I love having the iPads in the classroom. It’s really changed a lot of what I’ve always done in a positive way. However, technology changes so fast that it’s difficult to always stay in front of the changes. Luckily, our students have been instrumental in assisting us as we went from limited technology to having a device in every student’s hand.”
Pedlow is also a coach in the school district for both JV boy’s soccer and varsity girl’s tennis teams. He says that coaching allows him to interact with kids in a completely different realm and to mentor them outside of the classroom.
“Coaching the girl’s tennis team has been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done since becoming a teacher,” said Pedlow. “I feel blessed that I have coached the girls that I have over the past eight seasons. Each year we have grown more successful as a program.”
The team won regionals and finished 10th in the state during its past season.
Pedlow said, “All of the credit for this goes to the girls who have dedicated themselves to the goal of a top 10 finish, something that has never happened before for the program. They are an incredible group of young ladies, and I really enjoy my time on the courts with them.”
“Kids and parents love Matt for all he does in the classroom, on the soccer field and on the court,” said Kapolka.
Great profile of Mr. Pedlow. He is rapidly becoming our daughter’s favorite teacher!
Kudos to Matt Pedlow! Matt makes learning fun and interesting for his students. Matt sincerely cares about his students. Having spent three years doing Civil War Living History Programs in his classroom, it is obvious he is a great teacher and respected mentor. George Tlll, 24th. Michigan Infantry