By: Vida Adair Matus

Was there a specific moment or time that you realized you wanted to be a teacher? 

Somewhere around grade 11 or 12 when I had to decide what I was going to do next. I looked at all the jobs I had up to that point and I was always the one training others on staff. I liked it and my employers obviously thought i was good at it, so teaching just made sense.

What’s your favourite part about being a teacher? 

The security. I can be my best at my job because I don’t have to worry.

What is your favourite part about teaching at Forest Hill?

The people. As a whole, the students and staff are really great people. 

How has the pandemic affected your teaching style?

I am more concerned with students’ workload and stress levels than ever. If I’m struggling to keep a balance, chances are students are too.

If the pandemic were over tomorrow, what’s the first thing you would do? 

Go visit my family in Northern Ontario. It has been a year and a half since I have seen my dad.

What event at Forest Hill do you miss most due to the pandemic?

Commencement. It is loads of work to do all the decorations but I really love it.

What’s your  favourite at home activity? 

Sleeping! Lol. Ok maybe more like gardening. I live being in my backyard fussing over my flower beds.

Do you have any hidden talents most of your students don’t know about?

Not really. Maybe some stupid human tricks like moving my ears and folding my tongue into three folds. LOL.

If there’s one thing you could change about this year what would it be? 

COVID! Duh.

Do you have any advice for students coming to Forest Hill next year ? 

GET INVOLVED. Join a club. The one you want doesn’t exist? Start it! The school is great but what you will remember about high school is the clubs and groups that you were a part of, NOT what you learned in class.