North Attleboro High School Alumni Association

Matthew Lacasse
Excellence in Education Award
2024

Rare is the educator who not only creates a thriving classroom environment but also dedicates a lifetime to the well-being of students. Matthew Lacasse embodies this rare quality, having grown and innovated in the field of education for over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he has taught and mentored.

Matthew's educational journey began at North Attleborough High School, where he graduated in 1994. He continued his academic pursuit at Bridgewater State College, obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in History with a Middle School Minor in 1998. Furthering his commitment to education, he earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Bridgewater State University in 2007.

In September 1998, Matthew commenced his teaching career at the Bi-County Collaborative, where he served as both a paraprofessional and a teacher for two years. Since September 2000, he has been a dedicated 8th-grade History teacher at North Attleboro Middle School, shaping countless students' academic and personal development.

Beyond the classroom, Matthew has been deeply involved in the North Attleboro community since his teenage years, working for the NA Recreation Department for nine summers starting at the age of 15. His connection to the town and its people has fueled his passion for education.

Matthew's contributions extend far beyond teaching. He has been a co-chair of the North Attleboro Social Emotional Committee (2018-2020), a Board of Director for the North Attleboro Scholarship Committee (2006-2022), and a volunteer wrestling coach at North Attleboro High School (2019-2022). His commitment to the town and its students goes beyond the classroom, showcasing his dedication to fostering a holistic learning environment.

Matthew has received notable recognition throughout his career, including the Attleboro Area Daughters of the American Revolution History Teacher of the Year and Massachusetts Daughters of the American Revolution History Teacher of the Year in 2023. These awards are a testament to his outstanding service and commitment to the young minds of North Attleboro.

Reflecting on his mentors, Matthew acknowledges the profound influence of educators like Tony Calcia, James Hale, Martha Frutchey, Earlene Roberts, Roland Robitaille, Don Johnson, Jack Johnson, Heather Johnson, Kenneth Pickering, Steve Lasky, Ray Beaupre, and Scott Lockwood. Their passion for teaching and caring for students has inspired him to follow in their footsteps.

Beyond his professional life, Matthew is a devoted family man, married to Elizabeth for 20 years, with two children, Abigail and Ellie. His personal interests include golf, spending time in Mattapoisett, and cherishing moments with family and friends.

Matthew's teaching philosophy is encapsulated in his classroom motto: "teach, not preach." He encourages critical thinking, challenges students' beliefs, and emphasizes supporting thoughts with factual information. His goal is to create a classroom with high academic expectations and a strong sense of community, where students feel safe to engage with the curriculum.

Above all, Matthew bases educational decisions on what is best for students. Working with a team that shares this belief, he ensures that every decision, whether academic or social-emotional, is guided by the question, "What is best for kids?"

Receiving the Excellence in Education award is a humbling experience for Matthew. His love for teaching, coupled with the recognition from his peers and the community, reflects a career dedicated to the betterment of young minds. Matthew Lacasse stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the essence of excellence in education.