Biography
Matthew Hamilton
MathLEA License
University(S) attended and degree obtained *
Cal State Long Beach (BA), Loyola Marymount University (MA)
Certifications, awards, and/or other achievements *
Clarinet Section Leader (2008) Drum Major (2009) Eagle Scout (2009) Gold, silver, and bronze medalist in Impromptu, Extemporaneous, and Parliamentary Debate (2011-2015) Gold Medalist at Phi Rho Pi National Debate Tournament (2013) Scored 1580 on SAT (2019) Rated 1600 on Chess.com (2024)
What's your job/ class do you teach and/or sports you coach*
Mathematics / ESL
Family (kids/ grandkids etc)*
Liam (7) and Elia (3)
Hometown*
Cerritos, CA
Hobbies *
Reading, chess, Google Sheets
favorite book*
Ender's Game
favorite quote *
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were all meant to shine as children do. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone. And, as we let our own light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
Favorite sports team*
L.A. Dodgers
Favorite part of being a Griffins?*
My favorite part of being a Griffin is being welcomed by friendly staff and students into this community.
what is your purpose for working at SLA*
My purpose is to help students learn Math and English in a safe and supportive learning environment.
teaching philosophy 2-3 sentences only please*
I believe that everyone can achieve at high levels if they are willing to put in the work and contribute to the learning environment. When you learn something or how long it takes you or even how many tries it takes are all less important than whether or not you can persevere until you succeed.