Amidst some shakeups in the Science Department, a new chemistry teacher has been somewhat overlooked so far this school year.
Virginia Mattos is a new teacher at Old Rochester Regional High School who comes to our school after Ms. Champagne left to explore other career opportunities at the end of last year. Although her main subject is Chemistry, she has experience in a number of different areas and brings a unique perspective to the local high school.
In an interesting coincidence, Mattos came to this school thanks to the help of the recently retired Mrs. Cabral, whose last day was November 25.
“Mrs. Cabral contacted me, and because I’d interviewed here before, she knew I wanted to work here,” said Mattos. “She thought it was a good fit.”
So far, Mattos has been teaching Chemistry, which is largely the class for standard science class for sophomores. In addition, she teaches an Environmental Science class.
“I’m licensed to teach chemistry, as well as biology,” said Mattos.
One thing that is clear is that Mattos held a wide range of jobs before coming to ORR.
“Before teaching here, I had a lot of different jobs,” she said. “I’ve been teaching for six years. Before that, I worked as an X-ray tech, bridal consultant, sold exotic cars and motorcycles, worked at a gym, and managed an American Eagle.” She continued, “I taught while I was living in California.”
So far, Mattos said she likes the position.
“It’s really good. I like the people I work with, and the students are great,” said Mattos. “I hope I can broaden the electives offered in the Science Department.”
With that said, it now seems that having Mattos in the Science Department is even more important with Cabral retired. It is safe to say that Ms. Mattos adjusts well to change, and she is off to a very good start in the high school.
By Patrick Briand
