Sheyla Mattos, Felida, Sacajawea elementary schools

From left: Vancouver School of Arts and Academics Principal Lori Rotherham and teacher Sheyla Mattos. Mattos was recognized at the Oct. 10 school board meeting.

Veteran teacher Sheyla Mattos was in late September named the 2017 Educator of the Year by the Dance Educators Association of Washington. Since 1996, Mattos has translated her vast experience performing all over the world into powerful instruction for her students at Felida and Sacajawea elementary schools and students from around the district.

Kids of all ages have performed Mattos’ choreography; participated in her after-school dance classes; and showcased their learning in the district’s annual dance festival, which reached its 20th anniversary in 2017. She also has presented workshops for fellow teachers and community members, while continuing to perform, study and choreograph with many local and international groups and organizations.

Mattos holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Sao Paulo in her native Brazil and a master’s degree in dance from the University of California, Los Angeles.