Mrs. Matchinga « Hudson City School District

Welcome to A-14!

Hello! My name is Mrs. Kathy Matchinga. I teach third grade at McDowell Elementary School and I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with you and your child this year. I would like us to become partners in your child's education! I live in Hudson with my husband Walter. Our oldest daughter is a kindergarten teacher in Chicago and our youngest daughter is a junior at Penn State University. My educational credentials include a Bachelors Degree in Political Science from Miami University, a Juris Doctorate from the University of Akron School of Law and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Kent State University. Additionally, I have earned 34 hours post-Master's, most of which are concentrated in gifted education and literacy, including addressing the needs of struggling readers. I recently earned the designation of Master Teacher, reflecting that I successfully completed and submitted a portfolio documenting how I have met and exceeded the standards of excellence in teaching established by the State of Ohio. I have served on many committees at McDowell and across the district, including the Strategic Planning Committee, the Gifted and Talented Focus Group, and the Local Professional Development Committee. I have been Co- Language Arts Content Facilitator of third grade for the past eight years, along with my colleague Mrs. Montgomery. I am a member of the PTO and have headed the annual McDowell-PTO Used Book Sale for five years. Though I worked as an attorney while my children were young, I was fortunate enough to discover that my true passion is teaching, and I am blessed to be entering my tenth year at McDowell.

I believe that every child is unique, special and capable of learning. My goal is to help each child experience success each day, in an atmosphere which is challenging, supportive, safe, nurturing, positive and meaningful. I have high expectations for my students and a great belief that they will love learning in third grade. My classroom is a warm and caring environment where children feel valued and confident. I encourage risk-taking, pride in quality work and flexibility. I expect children to respect themselves and others, and to take ownership of their learning. Each day when I come to work I am thankful for the privilege of teaching young children in our wonderful community. I look forward to a terrific year with your child!

For questions regarding this page, please contact Mrs. Matchinga