Matt Stroud, Middle School Chaplain
How long have you been at ESD?
This is my first year.
What's your favorite class or project?
"It’s fun teaching religion to 5th/6th grade, they're fun to teach, and I get to know the kids! I also love listening to all our guest speakers and hearing all the different voices in Chapel."
What's your favorite spot on campus?
"The lunchroom. I’ve enjoyed getting to eat meals prepared for me by someone else and sitting with the different advisories and getting to know more of the students."
What's your favorite candy or sweet treat?
"Reese’s peanut butter egg or the Christmas trees."
Did you always know you wanted to be a teacher?
"No, I was a youth minister for a long time, and I had begun to recognize how great it was to work in a school setting. With youth ministry, you're with students once or twice a week, whereas, in a school, it’s constant. The school setting blends those worlds together."
Fun Fact.
"I have been to all 50 state capital buildings. 27 are on round 2."
Hobby.
"I love coaching volleyball and playing golf."
What do you love about ESD?
"I love the people and the tradition. The community and the history are steeped in some really special things that people were very intentional about creating and putting together. Remembering why we started in the first place and making it the best it can be in this current day and time. It’s a privilege to be part of something this special."
What's 1 tip you would give to students?
"Embrace the challenge. I think it’s so important to really try and give yourself the grace to accept a challenge and be willing to fail. Always be willing to give your best, no matter the outcome.
Know that there is a Creator who loves you and is actively working for you!"