There’s a new face in Trinity’s history department this year: Mr. Matthew Lapina. A Louisville native, Mr. Lapina grew up in JCPS schools and graduated from Eastern High School in 2017. After that, he went on to Western Kentucky University, where he earned his degree in history and social studies. Now in his fifth year of teaching, he’s excited to start his first year at Trinity.

Before coming to Trinity, Mr. Lapina taught at South Warren High School in Bowling Green and Holy Cross High School on Dixie Highway. He says he was drawn to teaching because of his love for history and his desire to help students get ready for life beyond high school. “History and social studies are a big part of our society,” he explained. “It’s good for people to know more about it and to have an appreciation for it.”

So why did he choose Trinity? For Mr. Lapina, it was a no-brainer. Growing up in Louisville, he always saw Trinity as a school that stood out. “Trinity High School is the standard, whether it’s academics, athletics, or extracurriculars,” he said. “There’s no reason not to want to be a part of it.”

In the classroom, Mr. Lapina describes his style as “relaxed professionalism.” He wants his students to take learning seriously, but he also makes sure the environment is fun and engaging. Recently, his world history students compared Muslim and European art, learning how religion and culture shaped different styles. Projects like this show how history connects to real life, and that’s something he wants all his students to see.

Outside of class, Mr. Lapina is already getting involved in the Trinity community. He’s the JV Quick Recall coach and says he’s willing to jump in wherever he’s needed, even helping out with sports announcing. A big sports fan himself, he’s enjoyed watching Trinity football this fall, but he admits he’s especially excited for baseball season.

More than anything, Mr. Lapina hopes his students leave his class with a deeper understanding of the world around them. “History tends to rhyme a lot,” he said, meaning the past often repeats itself in new ways. He wants Trinity students to recognize those patterns and use that knowledge to become, as our mission statement says, men of faith and character.

Trinity is lucky to have Mr. Lapina on board, and we’re excited to see the impact he’ll make both inside and outside the classroom.