Administrator Spotlight

Matt Ziegler

Principal at Riverside High School, Riverside Public Schools

Matt Ziegler, Principal at Riverside High School, says "I used to think principals sat around drinking coffee and talking all day. Little did I know how much work those people were doing.” His first job in education was as a substitute teacher for Camp Raider summer program at Nettleton when he was a college student. He says he has always been interested in learning history and decided that teaching history would be a perfect fit. With several educators in his family, he says, " I grew up listening to stories about school. So, when I went into education I already knew the lingo." He started his teaching career at Riverside High School in 2008 teaching World History, went to Trumann High School for the 2012 school year, and then returned to Riverside where he has remained since. He became the school's assistant principal in 2016 before transitioning to the principal role in 2017.

Mr. Ziegler says his favorite part of his job is helping students reach their full potential. "It has been a blessing to see our students grow over the years. We have a 5year-old little girl and I love that a lot of her little buddies from school have parents that I have taught in class. I have been able to keep up with these former students and seeing them do well has certainly made me proud.” He says the most challenging part of his job is getting it all done. However, he believes if you have a passion for the job, it is highly rewarding, and he advises others considering the career to "do some soul searching, ask your principal some questions regarding their job and, if it sounds like something you’re interested in, you should definitely go for it."

One major change he's seen during his education career is the increased emphasis on how everyday decisions affect students. He says, "We try to look at everything from their perspective to positively affect their education.” Mr. Ziegler says his current goal is "making Riverside High School the best I can every day.” When asked where he'd like to be in 5 years, he says "Hopefully still here grinding away."

? Q&A ! with Matt Ziegler

How would your co-workers describe you?

My coworkers would describe me as compassionate and fair.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Don’t rush through life. Try to enjoy those Mondays and Tuesdays too.

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

I love to hear their good ideas… so that I can copy them!

What have you done that you are most proud of?

I’m very proud of my family. My wife is our school’s library/media specialist and our daughter goes to Riverside West Elementary. It is so awesome to have us all basically on the same campus. My wife is amazing at her job. She is one of the best librarians I have ever seen!

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

Visit all 50 states

If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?

Something outside. I wouldn’t mind working at a greenhouse and nursery.

When people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?

I hope that people remember that I cared.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

For me, networking has been the biggest benefit. I have met fine people all over this great state due to being a member of AAEA.