Matthew Trzaskus

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Matthew Trzaskus relocated with his family to Louisville, Kentucky where he attended St. Albert the Great and St. Xavier High School. Matthew graduated with a BS in Biology from Clemson University before working as a Forensic Scientist Specialist for the Kentucky State Police specializing in Serology, DNA, and Bloodstain Pattern Analysis supporting local, state, and federal agencies and testified in court on a regular basis. In 2015, he made a career change to education and obtained his MAT from University of Louisville as part of their Alternative Teacher Certification Program. Concurrent with enrolling in this program, Matthew began teaching Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, and Forensic Science at Seneca High School for Jefferson County Public Schools. In his tenure at Seneca, Matthew also taught was a member of the school’s Budget Committee, Site-Based-Decision-Making Council, and was head of the Racial Equity Committee. He received his PhD in Curriculum and Instruction where his research focuses on science education. He has had research published in Supporting STEM Education with Limited Resources, and is currently researching methods of engagement for equity of instruction in JCPS. His vision for equitable education led him to SMA with their strong community outreach programs. Matthew is married to his high school sweetheart, Kitty Samuels, who is currently serving as the Fundraising Chair of SMA’s PTO Executive Board. Together they have two children Alexis and Theo at SMA. In his spare time, Matt enjoys golfing, traveling and spending time with his family, Pandora, their cat, and their two doodles, Parker and Piper.