Matt Coates 2

Matt is originally from Peoria, Illinois and he holds an associate degree from Illinois Central College, a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Illinois State University, where he was also a student-athlete, as a member of the Men’s Basketball Team. Matt also has a master’s degree in Nonprofit Leadership from Bradley University.

Matt currently works for Project Oz as a School Youth Specialist in their Youth Empowered Schools Program. Within Matt’s role, he serves as a student support specialist at Bloomington High School helping students overcome barriers to stay on track towards graduation, obtain mental and emotional wellness, help students and faculty resolve conflicts through restorative circles, and building a restorative culture in the school by providing trainings to educators in the district on Restorative Practices. Matt also serves on District 87’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee.

Matt is also a soon to be author of his new book: Do More Than Exist – 7 Habits to Reaching Your Potential As A Teenager.