Laura Mattie
Education Specialist at iLEAD Hybrid Exploration
Laura Mattie has been with iLead Exploration as a Education Specialist for the past three years. Her heart for teaching learners who need extra support comes from watching her Aunt in the education field for over 25 years.
My aunt taught the gifted for 35 years; she was amazing with children. I decided to follow in her footsteps and teach as well. I always had a soft spot for kids that had a hard time in school. I felt like they needed someone with patience and who could see things from their perspectives- so I decided to teach in the area of special education. I found iLead through a mutual friend who was really happy working here, so I decided to see what it was all about.
But when it comes to role models, it doesn’t stop with her aunt. Laura also tries mirror her life after a few other inspirational people.
My mother is my role model and has been forever. She may not have taught in the classroom, but she is the strongest person I know. I also think Elon Musk is pretty amazing- he sees things from a different perspective, uses creativity, and makes things happen, even when people say it is impossible. I love that in a person.
Teaching can be very stressful at times and we constantly look for a balance between making it through the good and bad days. Laura uses a very unique and effective method to keep those bad days away.
The use of neuro linguistic programming. It helps me reframe my thoughts. A friend taught me this and it helps keep things in perspective. I struggle with major anxiety and depression, and this helps me break patterns of thought that can stop me from being productive. I will listen to uplifting music, use grounding techniques, and sometimes phone a friend to talk me through what is troubling me.
Laura is a morning person, rushing around the house getting her kids ready for school, feeding them breakfast, and out to the bus pick up spot waiting for that yellow tube on wheels to take her children to school before she can sit down with a warm drink and start her lesson planning for the day. Don’t get her wrong, she absolutely loves her children but who doesnt work better in silence from time to time.
Laura is not only an amazing teacher but she also has some experience with singing opera and we may have to encourage a sample at the staff symposium in October. (We may not all understand it though)
I was cast as Snow White in Disney World. I think I look ridiculous with black hair! I’ve also sung opera in public- in German.
But getting her on that stage may be a little difficult based on her enneagram.
I am a solid type 1- and I am trying very hard to not be so rigid. I always want to do my very best in everything I attempt, and I am my worst critic!
Shout out to the other 1’s in iLead Land, we wouldn’t be us without you.
For fun Laura was asked which fictional character did she feel she was most like? What traits do she share with them? Her reply not only was perfect but also tested the google skills for the young staff members at iLead.
Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She marches to the beat of a different drummer, and doesn’t mind what other people think- she is a free spirit but sometimes doesn’t know what to do with that freeness and attention.
And lastly, Laura offers some advice that has fueled her in life that she lives by on a daily basis.
Always assume good intentions. People have a lot going on that you may not be aware of. Don’t take things personally and do your best to be kind and understanding.
If you dont know Laura, take a minute and say hello, she is a wonderful person with a warm spirit that will instantly connect with anyone she meets. This can be seen from the respect and love given to her from her learners, parents, and co-workers she works with everyday.
Thank you Laura Mattie for being part of the iLead Family.