Matthew brings energy and a fresh perspective to the campaign as a recent graduate of Clay County Schools.
A third generation Clay County resident, he served in numerous professional organizations during his time in public schools including the Superintendent's Youth Advisory Council, the VyStar High School Branch Program, Class President at Clay High, and as a school district representative to the American Legion’s Boys State program where he received the prestigious Lance Cpl. Andrew J. Aviles Scholarship.
He took college classes in high school, graduating with his Associate's Degree and would later graduate from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science.
Upon graduation, he served as one of the youngest staffers on Governor Ron DeSantis’ 2022 re-election campaign and would go on to become one of the youngest employees hired at the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, eventually transitioning to the Florida Department of Education.
It’s these experiences that have equipped him with a strong understanding of the issues facing our education system and a passion for driving positive change here at home.
As a recent graduate of Clay County Schools, I've seen what works and what we can improve on.
As your school board member, I'm committed to expanding our Career Technical Education and Community Partnership Schools programs, which show positive results for our students.
Investing more in these programs enables us to continue to lead as one of the best districts in the state.
School districts across Florida are facing teacher shortages left and right.
As your school board member, I'm committed to building trust and collecting input with our faculty and staff by holding quarterly "Teacher Townhalls" across the county.
Through these townhalls, it is my hope that we can identify specific concerns our teachers are facing in the classroom, and address them.
Parental involvement in schools is a key issue around the nation right now.
As your school board member, I'm committed to holding office hours and community townhalls with parents, where we can work to address the issues their students may face in our schools.
Holding office hours is a key hallmark of providing transparency and accountability to our parents across the district.
"As a product of the Clay County School system, I'm thankful for the many teachers and administrators who supported me, mentored me, and helped me become the person I am today.
As a graduate during the COVID era, I saw firsthand how dramatically classroom learning has changed. Many of the ways students were taught lessons just five years ago are no longer the same.
As a district, we need to support our teachers and work with our community partners in finding ways to creatively innovate the learning experience and keep students engaged.
I'm proud to be a Clay County native and a graduate of one of the best school systems in the state. With your support, I will work to keep it that way."