Mr. Matthew Leo

Hello Everyone!

My name is Matthew Leo. This is my 3rd official year of teaching here at Parkwood Elementary School. I am beyond excited to be teaching in 1st grade with your kiddos this year.

A little bit about myself:

Before Parkwood, I was a TA at Clyde Erwin Elementary school for about a year. During Covid, I was a transferred here to Parkwood, where I was given the opportunity to TA for 7 different teachers in the 3rd and 4th grade hall. What an experience! I had the wonderful opportunity to serve 7 different classes and get to know over 150 different students. Best on-the-job training ever! I completed my Teacher Internship at Parkwood and knew this is where I wanted to stay. For the last two years, I have enjoyed teaching 2nd graders who I always refer to as my "third-graders-in-training". Now I am taking all of that experience to help my new 1st graders become more than ready to tackle 2nd grade.

I am a graduate from UNCW with my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Teaching. As a working parent, I began working on my degree all while working full time, persevering a few classes at a time until finally achieving my dream. I knew I wanted to be a teacher way back in the 2nd grade, and it looks like I have come full circle.

Before my teaching career, I was a restaurant manager for over 22 years. I was the Training Coordinator (for managers and crew) for every Wendy's and McDonald's restaurants in Jacksonville and on Camp Lejeune. I am very proud to have served so many people over the years to the best of my ability.

I am a father of 3 amazing boys, Christopher, Tyler, and Connor, and a dog-dad to three girls: Halo, Bea-Bea Ann, and Yuna. My wonderful wife, Shelle, is also a teacher here in Jacksonville. Also, I am a GRANDFATHER to a wonderful 3-year-old granddaughter and 18-month-old grandson, Samara and Seth. They are truly my heart and joy.