Matthew Colwell

Before earning his teaching degree, Matthew began his journey in education working with preschool and school-aged children in a daycare setting. Since then, his career has spanned nearly every level of the educational system. He has taught in elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as at the university level, bringing a broad and deeply informed perspective to his work.

He is the author of 3 Engagement Rings: The Real Work of Student Engagement, The Examined Year: 365 Daily Reflections from Philosophy, Psychology, Literature, & History, and The Examined School Year: 180 Daily Reflections for Educators from Philosophy, Psychology, Education, & Literature.

His classroom experience includes teaching Advanced Placement (AP) courses, working with gifted and talented (GT) students, and leading virtual classes. Each of these settings offered unique insight into how engagement looks across diverse learners and contexts.

Beyond the classroom, he has served as a district administrator focused on curriculum and instruction, and as an Executive Director of Federal Programs at the state level. He holds a Master's degree in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum from the University of Oklahoma and has spent the past 15 years dedicated to public education.

Throughout his career, he has remained passionate about inspiring students, empowering educators, and supporting leaders, with the belief that public education can, and should, be world-class.

He has been happily married for 20 years and is the proud parent of two teenagers, roles that continue to shape his understanding of education, engagement, and what it means to truly support the next generation. He lives and works in Colorado Springs.