Being able to be a part of such great groups of people is something I have wanted for a long time. Also, being able to make a difference in both students' and teachers’ lives is something that I value.
Matt Cooke, originally from Lexington, North Carolina, earned a B.S. in history from University of North Carolina Charlotte in 2020. Cooke serves as the Technical Support Specialist at both App State lab schools, Academy at Middle Fork and Academy at Elkin. Read on to learn more:
Why did you choose to work at the lab schools?
Being able to be a part of such great groups of people is something I have wanted for a long time. Also, being able to make a difference in both students' and teachers’ lives is something that I value. I want to try to make everyone's life a little easier, and use some instances as learning moments for others.
What's your favorite part about working at the lab schools?
From the moment I got here, everyone has been so inviting and caring. Since day one I have felt like a part of a family.
How are you impacting education in your community?
In my role, I get to serve both lab schools by helping with their technology needs. To me, a big part of working in a community is to be very approachable and to make students and teachers comfortable — that’s the best type of education environment.
What was your favorite subject when you were in elementary school?
History
The lab schools have a reading literacy focus. What is your favorite book?
Racing to the Finish: My Story by Dale Earnhardt Jr.
“Learning together” is a core commitment of the lab schools. What does "learning together" mean to you?
To me, “learning together” is perhaps the best type of learning! Information is processed together while individuals use their different learning styles to arrive at a shared conclusion.
Just for fun, what is your favorite candy?
Reese’s Pieces