Matthew Sloan, BA
Mathematics

Matthew Sloan joined Valley View School in 2016 as a Mathematics Teacher, bringing with him a strong academic foundation and a genuine passion for supporting young people. Math has always come easily to Matt, and during high school he discovered a love for helping others while tutoring classmates in the school library. That early experience shaped his path toward education and led him to teach in public schools before finding his place at Valley View.

Having faced many of the same challenges experienced by Valley View students, Matt quickly connected with the school community. Over time, he discovered that his passion extends well beyond teaching math. He is deeply motivated by helping students learn, grow, and build confidence across all areas of their lives.

Matt graduated Cum Laude from Westfield State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics with a focus in Education. He was also a member of the university’s National Honors Society, recognized for academic excellence. Following graduation, he worked in a range of school districts, from affluent suburban communities to low income urban areas. These experiences gave him valuable perspective on student needs, access to resources, and educational equity. During his time in public education, Matt also served as Head of the Math Department and Curriculum Coordinator for two years.

Throughout his career, Matt has taught both middle and high school students across a wide range of skill levels. While still in college, he also worked as a substitute teacher in kindergarten and second grade classrooms, adding to his flexibility and understanding of students at all stages of development. In the classroom, he focuses on reducing math anxiety by creating a relaxed, supportive environment where students feel safe to take risks and learn from mistakes. He believes confidence and curiosity go hand in hand and works intentionally to build both.

At Valley View, Matt’s role extends well beyond the math classroom. He teaches math, supports students in developing computer skills, plays games with students in the gym, and looks for opportunities to connect with them through shared interests. Outside the classroom, he enjoys video games, movies, television series, and fitness, often bonding with students over those common interests.

Matt discovered his passion for fitness later in life and enjoys sharing that enthusiasm with students, particularly through regular trips to Planet Fitness during the school’s summer program. Helping students build confidence in the gym is one of his favorite parts of the job. Outside of school, Matt is married and has a daughter close in age to the students he works with, a perspective that deepens his connection to the young people he supports each day.