Matthew Koehler

My educational experience spans several arenas. As far as degrees go, I hold a Juris Doctorate (law degree), BA in History and a minor in Chemistry. I've written several articles related to U.S. law and jurisprudence and recently finished my first novel. I maintain a current EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification. This, combined with frequent hands-on experience working as an EMS first responder at sporting events gives me real world experience in the field of first responder education.

I my teaching style goes beyond the "presentation of information." I prefer more of a socratic approach to learning, especially for young minds, rather than just a regurgitation of learned information. There is merit in rote memorization, but I find young people learn faster, and retain more information by integrating themselves in the education. Forcing students to answer questions that require a certain level of thought, research and discussion can allow for a deeper understanding of the subject matter and better retention of information. Keeping this framework in mind when designing my educational materials allows me to create more engaging projects and leaning experiences while also presenting the information in an engaging manner. Deep thought, peer discussion and the ability to focus on a central idea is integral for intellectual growth.

Member, Phi Alpha Theta (History honors society)

Other than working as a substitute teacher for many years and leading several classes in EMS response, I do not have any formal educational experience as a permanent, full-time teacher. I've spent a lot of time "out of the classroom" teaching classes to firefighter trainees, U.S. Marine Corps personnel, personally tutoring young students and leading discussions/seminars in law school.

- Served 5 years in the U.S. Marine Corps/U.S. Marine Corps Reserve - Served 4 years as a Seasonal Firefighter for Marin County Fire Department - Father of two high school aged daughters. - Fitness enthusiast - Slow, but voracious, reader of literature and biographies/memoirs