Campbell was recognized at a ceremony on March 17 as part of the WVCTM annual conference at the Stonewall Resort. Since 1982, awards are given annually to educators at the elementary, middle school, high school, and college levels in recognition of exemplary and impactful mathematics teaching and service in the field of mathematics education.
Campbell’s service to the field includes serving as the president of the West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics and as the principal investigator of the Mountaineer Mathematics Master Teachers (M3T) project that is focused on supporting teacher-led improvement of mathematics teaching and learning in West Virginia.
The M3T project, funded by the National Science Foundation and the West Virginia Department of Education, supports a growing improvement network, with 43 middle and high school mathematics teachers from 29 counties serving as M3T Fellows. This year, the network has engaged more than 80 additional teachers, impacting thousands of mathematics students across the state.
“There is such a rich tradition of excellent mathematics education across West Virginia that to be named a Teacher of the Year by WVCTM is truly an honor, especially in that organization’s 75th year,” Campbell said. “Among the many roles I take on as a faculty member, being an educator remains at the core. To know that the learning spaces I construct allow students to be heard, seen, grow and succeed, and go on to positively impact others makes the hard work worth it. To be recognized for that work is just a bonus.”
Johnna Bolyard, associate professor of mathematics education in CAHS, nominated Campbell for the award.
“I have always been amazed by Matt’s passion and dedication to supporting mathematics teaching and learning at WVU and across the state,” Bolyard said. “He teaches a wide-range of courses including mathematics courses for elementary pre-service teachers, secondary mathematics methods courses, and courses in the doctorate program in educational theory and practice. He is praised as an engaging, thoughtful, and thought-provoking instructor. Through his work with M3T, he has created space for teachers to enact their agency and voice as they learn together and have seen first-hand the power of this work on the participants.”
“I aspire to be a teacher like Dr. Campbell,” said Sean Freeland, a WVU alumnus who was a student of Campbell’s. “He is a knowledgeable, caring teacher who always keeps the students at the center of everything he does. He sets clear, attainable expectations and also recognizes each student's humanity, allowing for students to reach their full potential.”