Walla Walla Construction Technology Teacher Receives Surprise as Regional Teacher of the Year

By ESD 123 Communications Department

Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith paid a surprise visit to the classroom of Walla Walla SEATech teacher, Mr. Eric Matson, to announce his selection by Educational Service District 123 as this year’s Regional Teacher of the Year. Mr. Matson is the Construction Technology Instruction teacher at the SEATech Skills Center. ESD 123 Director of Teaching & Learning Molly Hamaker-Teals oversees the Teacher of the Year program for the region.

She states, “Eric demonstrates a passion for Construction Trades, the success of each of his students, and their positive impact within the community.” SEATech Skills Center Director Jerry Maher spoke of his pride in Mr. Matson. “Eric is an expert in his field,” Mr. Maher said. “He collaborates with other educators in our area and across the Pacific Northwest…He has brought his years of experience in the construction industry, in manufacturing, and the private sector into his program, getting students and parents excited about possibilities in Construction Trades and beyond.”

According to Maher, Mr. Matson continuously adds to the certifications and qualifications that are available for his students to earn, connecting students with apprenticeships, work in local trades, and opportunities for post-secondary options. SEATech is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) campus located in Walla Walla that partners with and serves students from six different school districts, including College Place, Dayton, Prescott, Touchet, Waitsburg, and Walla Walla. SEATech is a branch campus of the Tri-Tech Skills Center in the Tri-Cities.

Mr. Matson is one of nine regional Teacher of the Year winners from Washington State who will go on to compete in the State competition organized by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).