SXU Education Student Earns College of Liberal Arts and Education Award
Recent Saint Xavier University (SXU) education graduate Rachel Matthies '24 recently received the College of Liberal Arts and Education's Sister M. Irenaus Chekouras Award. Selected for her research and writing skills, Matthie's meticulous planning and innovative teaching methods have garnered her great respect among members of her cohort.
"I feel very honored to have been awarded this recognition. After hearing what my professors had to say about me, I am very humbled and grateful to have such kind and thoughtful mentors in my life," said Matthies.
Matthies, who earned her master's degree in elementary education, took on a residency and worked as a full-time elementary school teacher while completing her studies.
"My residency played a huge role in my ability to complete assignments, reflect on my teaching, and carry out active research for my capstone paper and presentation. Being able to showcase my leadership and communication skills in my newfound role as a teacher contributed to the work I was able to do as a graduate student," said Matthies.
Previously, Matthies worked in a criminal justice career doing analytical work for the Department of Justice. During the pandemic, she began tutoring again to fill in her time, and once she started, she realized how much she truly loved teaching and mentoring others. She also began volunteering as a crisis counselor for a suicide hotline. Her hobbies led her to go back to school with the intent of changing her career field to become a teacher.
"I found SXU's alternative licensure route for the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and decided to make the leap. Throughout the program, my graduate courses supported my teaching and allowed me to apply new and unique teaching strategies and practice activities in real time. I was also able to consult my peers and professors as I reflected on my current teaching practices so that I was best able to engage and assess my students throughout their learning. SXU's graduate program facilitated my growth as an educator immensely and gave me the necessary experience and coaching to thrive as a teacher for my students," said Matthies.
Over the course of the program, Matthies engaged in a number of projects and significant opportunities for learning that she found impactful as a teacher and a leader.
"I grew professionally from the honest and insightful collaboration within my courses, which included small group discussions, presentations, and even staying after class and running ideas past one another. Another opportunity that proved fruitful was the assigned mentorship for the students in our cohort. My mentor was Dr. Alicia Meno, and she observed my teaching in real time so that she could provide feedback for growth. She also hosted 'teacher talks' as part of her mentorship program, which allowed both new and experienced teachers to present challenges, discuss the educational community overall, and share all kinds of experiences and advice with each other," said Matthies.
Matthies' favorite memories at SXU involve her peers, who have also left other careers and paths to pursue a future in education. She believes that sharing a love for students and mentoring children has bonded them together.
Next up, Matthies will be starting her third year of teaching at a new school, Edison Elementary, in the northern suburbs of Chicago. She will be teaching third grade back in her hometown, and she plans to continue her education by obtaining additional endorsements.