Mrs. Matthias is more than a teacher—she's an inspiration to her students and a treasure to the Carmichael Elementary community. A Sierra Vista native, she grew up attending Bella Vista and Village Meadows, graduated from Buena High School, and earned her degree from the University of Arizona. Now, she’s giving back to the community that shaped her, and she does so with remarkable creativity and heart.
In her fifth-grade classroom, Mrs. Matthias brings learning to life with innovative, hands-on activities. Drawing inspiration from her love of Dungeons & Dragons, she creates mini-adventures for her students that foster critical thinking and engagement. This imaginative approach, combined with her passion for reading, helps her students see the world beyond screens and sparks a lifelong love of learning. Currently, her class is immersed in the Percy Jackson series, and she hopes her enthusiasm for books inspires her students to explore the wonders of reading.
Mrs. Matthias also understands the importance of teaching life skills. She founded an after-school Cooking Club, where students learn to measure ingredients, read recipes, practice proper table etiquette, and prepare delicious meals like Asian wraps, cookies from scratch, and fettuccine alfredo. These lessons extend into her classroom, where students hold "jobs," earn "salaries," and manage "rent," teaching them real-world responsibilities.
Her classroom is a family, built on trust, respect, and teamwork. Each student has a role, and they support one another through every challenge and celebration. Activities like "Camping Day," where students earn points for good behavior and then participate in creative projects like writing spooky stories or making s’mores, reinforce her belief in rewarding effort and building community.
Mrs. Matthias credits her high school teacher, Mrs. Henderson, for inspiring her to become an educator. Just as Mrs. Henderson nurtured her love for reading, Mrs. Matthias now helps her students see their potential and dream big.
Principal Jimenez says, “Mrs. Matthias is truly exceptional in her approach to teaching. She builds strong, trusting relationships with her students, creating a positive and supportive classroom environment. Her innovative methods and dedication help students achieve remarkable academic progress while growing as individuals. Her impact is truly inspiring.”
Outside the classroom, Mrs. Matthias is a loving wife and mom to two boys, ages four and nine. Her older son proudly attends Carmichael, continuing the family’s connection to the school.
Thank you, Mrs. Matthias, for your unwavering dedication to our students and your passion for teaching. You are making a lasting difference in their lives and shaping the future of our community!