INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Susan Mathews, Central Florida Christian Academy

Susan Mathews is a middle school coordinator and Bible teacher at Central Florida Christian Academy.

She teaches five classes daily and serves as administrative support for middle school teachers and administrators. She spearheaded the introduction of Ron Clark Academy’s Middle School House system in which all students in sixth through eighth grades belong to a smaller “house” community. She helps plan and oversees all events and activities related to the house system.

“Mrs. Susan Mathews has been teaching at CFCA for almost a decade,” Upper School Principal Kristi Laviolette said. “She is always willing to fill in wherever needed and has taught Bible, life skills, musical theater, vocal ensemble and even Spanish. She is dedicated to the truth of God's word and desires above everything that her students learn about the Bible and grow in their faith. She is also one of the amazing leaders of our Middle School Houses, impacting every student in our middle school on a personal level. We are so thankful to have Susan at CFCA!”

What brought you to your school?

My husband and I are both Brevard County natives but moved to Texas in 2009 for his job. In 2015, we were praying for an opportunity to move “back home,” and the Lord answered our prayers with job offers for both of us at Central Florida Christian Academy.

What do you love most about your school?

I love that all staff members at our school are encouraged to actively pursue fulfillment of the school’s mission which is to educate, inspire and equip students to know and serve Jesus Christ.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I teach a Biblical Worldview class to sixth- and seventh-graders, so the most rewarding part of my job is the daily opportunity to teach eternal truths and to challenge students to view all of life through the lens of scripture.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

If I were teaching something different, I’d be teaching music (choir) because my degree is in music education. If I weren’t teaching at all, I think I’d have gone into advertising because I love creativity and word-play.

Who influences you?

My husband of almost 32 years constantly challenges me in a great way to think more deeply and love more selflessly. Also, my mom and dad are both still living and have been wonderful, compelling, godly influences throughout my life.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite and most memorable teacher was probably my high school choir director. He has passed away, but he always recognized and sought to develop my natural abilities in music, and he encouraged me to pursue teaching.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I absolutely love Shel Silverstein’s book of poetry, “Where the Sidewalk Ends.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m a teacher…I’m not familiar with this “spare time” you speak of. Seriously though, I love to bake, travel, read, and listen to music and podcasts. Oh, and shopping at TJMaxx or HomeGoods.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

I thought about this question for quite some time, and I think I would have to say Moses. What an amazing life he led!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Teleportation, no contest. Pop over to Florence, Italy for dinner, take a stroll through the city, watch the sunset and then sleep in my own bed!

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

I really love music, so this is a hard one. I am a film score fanatic, so I’d probably choose John Williams as one. I also love choral music and traditional church hymns, so I’d maybe choose the Mormon Tabernacle Choir because of how many albums of those types of music they have recorded. For my third, I think I have to go with Harry Connick Jr. because his musicianship is incredible, and he represents completely different style than my other two choices.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

Peanut butter and honey sandwich, potato chips, apple or grapes, and a cookie.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving is my favorite because I truly love being together with my extended family, cooking and baking together, and having a moment to reflect on God’s goodness.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My very first best friend was named Heather. She moved away in fourth grade. We stayed in touch through high school but have since lost contact with one another. I am, however, still very close friends with two girls I met during my freshman year at Florida State.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I was heavily involved in choir, vocal ensemble, musical theater and won multiple honors in those areas including All-State Choir. I was also senior class president.