Redfield native, Matthew Helm is the son of Les Helm and Connie Hull. Les recalls “Matthew was intrigued by History; World War 2, Military History, and Civil War History; early in high school even.” As a result of this passion and historical battle knowledge, Matthew had a desire to join the Marine Core upon graduating from Redfield High School in 1999. His father, Les, recommended joining the Air Force as he had done; however, Matthew held onto his own aspirations and followed through by proudly serving for 4 years and completing one tour in Iraq.
Matthew then went on to graduate from the University of Washington earning his Bachelor's Degree. He then took it to the next level by attending the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks to obtain his Master's Degree. It comes as no surprise that Matthew specializes in history; in fact, both World History and American History.
The first teaching position Matthew accepted was in Okreek, South Dakota, located in the Todd County School District. This position was on a reservation with a small population and even fewer resources. Les stated, “The job was tough but Matthew really loved the kids. The school district only supplied the teacher, not the materials.” Matthew remained in this position from 2015 to 2016.
In 2016, Matthew transferred to Prior Lake, a suburb of Minneapolis, where he is still currently teaching. Matthew was prestigiously nominated by members of the Prior Lake VFW Post 6208 for recognition of his devotion to his students, the PLSAS community, and the values he instills in his classroom. He was first selected as the VFW's Post Teacher of the Year. Competing against nominees from 31 other posts, Matthew then advanced to be named the 9-12 Teacher of the Year for the 2nd District. Finally, the exceptional dedication and leadership Matthew portrays earned him the top honor at the state level. He was named the VFW Department of Minnesota State High School Teacher of the Year (grades 9-12). The VFW Mid-Winter Banquet will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 where Matthew will be celebrated for this honor.