Commonly found on the pitch or in Room 14, Matthew Schembri does it all. Through teaching Specialized Academic Instruction, he has found a way to inspire those who know him, leading to him winning 2024 Teacher of the Year! Since the year of 2000, Schembri has prided himself with being a Westmont warrior, going to the school for his four years of high school and now teaching here, is a full circle moment for him. From the day he received his teaching credentials, Schembri has shown how he is a leader off and on the campus. He has fought battles of his own while still always putting his students (and soccer team) first. Nevertheless, Schembri has persevered to develop into an even more exceptional teacher and individual than he previously was. Everyone you speak with will only be able to tell well of him and the positive energy he carries. In addition to congratulating Coach Schembri on all of his life’s achievements, I want to say thank you to him for demonstrating to everyone why he deserves to be Westmont’s newest teacher of the year.
- How do you feel about winning teacher of the year?
Amazing, it’s a privilege to be recognized by your fellow teachers and students on campus. There’s no greater feeling.
- What is your favorite memory from teaching?
A combination of all of the amazing kids I’ve come across over the last 14 years. I’ve had a chance to work with a bunch of different kids that have all left an impression on me.
- One thing you want every student to know.
That everyone’s path to being successful looks different and as long as you are motivated you will succeed.
- What is it like to teach at the same school you went to?
Great. I love being a Westmont Warrior. I’ve spent 18 years of my life here both as a teacher and student which is half my life. It’s prideful.
- How long have you been teaching?
14 years.
- When did you graduate from Westmont?
2004 which was 20 years ago.
- What do you enjoy about teaching at Westmont?
I love the melting pot that is our student population and the community. I also love the memories that the hallways bring.
- What’s the best thing about teaching?
The best thing about teaching is knowing that everyday I get to make a difference whether it’s big or small. I have the opportunity to change a kid’s life.
- As a student, what sports, clubs, activities, classes did you take?
Soccer (lots of it), no AP classes because they scared me, I played roller hockey, I was in Journalism with Andy Evans, Yearbook, and ASB.
- What’s the hardest part about teaching?
There’s not a hard part. There are challenging days but I love my job so I never look at it as hard. I make the best of every day.