CHAMPAIGN — Growing up, Matt Jahnke loved sports and also knew he wanted to work with kids, just like his mother, who was a teacher. Naturally, he chose to become a physical education teacher when he graduated from the University of Illinois 11 years ago. He’s been at Bottenfield Elementary School for the last six years.
“He is able to quickly build positive relationships with students and staff,” Principal Kendra Bonam said. “His lesson plans are creative and keep students engaged during P.E. Bottenfield is lucky to have such an enthusiastic PE teacher.”
I find my work important because … physical education is the only subject that impacts a child physically, cognitively and socially. It is such a bright spot in a student’s day. Exercise is a crucial part of our physical and mental health, and I love being able to emphasize that to kids. If I can play a small part in motivating my students to value and participate in physical activity throughout their whole life, that brings me a lot of joy!
I became a teacher because … my mom was a teacher, and I grew up helping at various summer camps. I love sports, and I knew I wanted to be a positive influence for kids; P.E. teaching was the best of both worlds.
My favorite/most unique lesson that I teach is … my cooperative games unit. I love teaching activities that build character in students, so that one is fun. I also enjoy nontraditional activities that students can participate in throughout their whole life, such as pickleball, frisbee and roller skating.
My most fulfilling moments on the job are when … I see students smiling and truly enjoying being active. If I can inspire them to be good people and help them find joy in moving, that would be the most rewarding thing. Also, our Field Day is one of the most fulfilling days for me!
I keep students engaged by … developing strong relationships, developing a culture of fun and participating with students in activities.
Something else I’m passionate about is … my faith, my family, playing music and Chicago/Illini sports.
My favorite teacher and subject to study in school was … John Ostrander, Hawthorn Middle School, was an awesome teacher. He was my middle-school P.E. teacher and was also my cooperating teacher for student teaching. It was a very valuable experience not only having Mr. O as a teacher but as a colleague as well. My favorite school subject, of course, was P.E.
If I weren’t a teacher, I would be … the NBC correspondent for the Olympics, or a musician.