Tell us about yourself!

My name is Melissa Matzen. This year is the start of my 14th year in CSSD11. I am currently the STEAM teacher at Bristol Elementary. I have found my passion being able to teach STEAM to all kids K-5th. I want my students to learn collaboration, work on solving authentic real word problems, and know that it is ok to make mistakes as long as they keep persevering. My teaching philosophy is to create a safe, positive, and collaborative learning environment where students can explore through engaged hands-on learning. Some of my accomplishments include starting a STEM lab at another elementary  school, bringing Girls Who Code club into my last two schools, facilitating Vex Robotics Club, and winning the Everfi Behind the Scenes Stadium tour at the Air Force Academy.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

My favorite NHL player is Patrick Roy, the King of goaltenders. He is my favorite because of his dedication to win 4 Stanley Cups. I also love how he has continued to be in the hockey scene as a coach and mentor for the New York Islanders. Best goalie ever!

What is your favorite part of the Future Goals™program? How do you see STEM in the game of hockey?

My favorite part of the Future Goals program is being able to show and let the students explore how Hockey is related to Science and Math concepts. Before partnering with EverFi I had no idea how much STEM was in hockey. Now, I can teach my students that there is more to hockey than just a sport. From the temperature of the puck to the geometry of angles and surface area of the ice. We can teach Colorado Math and Science standards through sports. Which allows students to see a new perspective.

If you played hockey, what position would you play and why?

If I played hockey the position I would want to play is the left or right defensemen. I would want to play this position to help the goalie and stop the opposing team from scoring. I feel like I would be great at this position because I can react quickly and I am great at being a team player and communicating.