Our Inspiration

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From wearing a Spongebob tie in the school pictures, to playing kickball with his students during recess, to decorating his room like Hogwarts castle...Matt showed his pupils that there can be fun in learning.

It was Matt's belief that students should love learning.  He did anything and everything to make his classroom fun, while holding his pupils to high standards.  Read some stories below received from former students and parents to learn more about Matt's philosophy...

-Mr. Falcone was always energetic and always kept a smile on his face, he was like one of us!  He never raised his voice and always presented situations with patience.  Mr. Falcone focused heavily on writing and the habits I formed in his class I can confidently say I have carried with me through school, college, and my career.  He was so passionate and kind, one of my most memorable teachers for sure.

Darien LeBlanc, Rockledge, Florida

- Mr. Falcone was my fourth grade teacher at Manatee Elementary. I'm 20 years old now, but I will never forget him; the most wonderful teacher I ever had.  I immediately felt welcomed, and like I was at home in his classroom. My dad adored him because they shared a love for Harry Potter and were both from up north. I remember the first day of class he had the desks arranged in four different groups, one for each Hogwarts house of course. I was assigned to Hufflepuff, and I'm still one to this day. Something so small that I can still recall is him teaching his students how to say words with a northern accent; like the word "four." One day he brought his son AND his dog to class, that was one of the best days ever. We also got to put on a Christmas play, I think I still have it on a DVD somewhere. I was a sophomore at Rockledge High School when I found out about his passing. I was still friends with people who went to Manatee, and we all knew who Mr. Falcone was because we all loved him. Whether you had him as a teacher or not, you knew who he was. He lit up the lives of everyone he met, and I will never forget him.

Amanda Golden, Viera, Florida

- Mr. Falcone was my son's 4th grade teacher for the '09-'10 school year. He was an amazing teacher and his love for his family and students was so evident! I am truly sorry for your loss. As the anniversary of his passing nears, I know there are many emotions that come along with it. I pray for peace and comfort for all who miss him.

Brooke Walley, Satellite Beach, Florida

- My kids and I were very saddened when we heard the news. My youngest daughter had him as her teacher. She loved having a male for a teacher. He was a great teacher and she had a great year with him.
Michelle DeCenzo, Viera, Florida

- Matt was a wonderful person who truly loved teaching and being there for others. There is so much to be sad about with the passing of someone so young, but the quality of his life is what will be remembered. Be proud of the man he was and emulate him as best you can!
Carl Brown, Satellite Beach, Florida

- We were so shocked and saddened to hear about Mr. Falcone's passing. He was my son's 2nd grade teacher at Manatee only 3 years ago. His love for Disney and his family was amazing. He was so good with the class.  
Cynthia Noppert, Viera, Florida

- Thank you for being a part of my daughter's life. She loved you as a teacher. You made learning fun. God bless you and your family.
Steve Golden, Rockledge, Florida