Mr. Matt Heys

School: Millard West
Years Teaching: 16

Bio: Mr. Heys was born in St. Louis and moved to Omaha when he was 12. He attended high school at Millard North. It was in high school when he decided he wanted to be a teacher. Mr. Heys thought that Terry Eicher who taught AP U.S. History like he does now was the most influential teacher he had. Mr. Heys received his Bachelors of Science in Secondary Education and then went on to get his Master's in Political Science. His first year of teaching after graduating was at Millard South for one year, then he made the move to Millard West were he has been teaching since it opened.

Family: Mr. Heys parents still live in town, his mother Pat who is a reading tutor at Boystown and father Jim are still together. He has an older brother Jim who lives in St. Louis and a younger brother John who lives in Washington D.C.

Hobbies: When Mr. Heys is not teaching he likes to travel. He also enjoys running, reading, writing, web development and computer programming.

In Their Own Words: "Remember history isn't the past it's a record of the past and it can be fun to argue the record." - Mr. Matt Heys

Worthy Recognition: "I am writing a letter of support on behalf of Mr. Matt Heys for the Crystal Apple Award. I have known Matt in my two years as Principal and am very proud to have him on the Millard West faculty. As I talk to teachers, they describe Matt as the "Master Teacher," and the "blue chipper," they admire his instruction and innovation. Matt is well known for his expertise and skill in the use of technology, particularly the SMART Board. As more classrooms are being fitted with SMART Boards, teachers go to Matt for clinics and tips on how to enhance instruction. When I ask former students which teachers best prepared them for the next level, I almost always hear "Mr. Heys prepared me well." I would describe Matt as a high achieving scholar and an engaged employee.

In reviewing my two years working with Matt, I can attest to his many attributes, which include but are not limited to: hard worker, scholarly, honest, engaged and a role model for his fellow staff. Matt also serves as MEA representative and is well trusted by the staff to represent them when giving me feedback on the overall culture, climate and working conditions in the building. Matt is always fair and honest, and I see that he is a strong proponent of the school's vision and mission.

In closing, I'd like to say that I admire Matt most for his dedication and professionalism. Matt merits my highest recommendation as the Crystal Apple Award. His qualities exemplify what this award is all about." - Principal Greg Tiemann

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