Meet Dr. Matthew Barco 

I teach STEM classes at CEDAR, where I currently lead courses in mathematics, logic, and physics. My teaching experience spans nearly fifteen years at the college level, and I’m a tenure-track faculty member in the mathematics department at Jackson College in Jackson, Michigan. I hold a Ph.D. in Mathematics and am deeply committed to helping students build strong conceptual foundations in STEM—whether they’re solving algebraic equations, analyzing physical systems, or navigating formal logic.

I’m especially interested in the connections between mathematics and other forms of structured reasoning, and I strive to help students not only master technical skills but also appreciate the underlying beauty and coherence of logical thought. My teaching blends clarity, rigor, and real-world relevance, and I enjoy adapting my instruction to support learners at a wide range of levels.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy independent research and exploring ideas that span philosophy, science, and culture. One of my favorite books is Oswald Spengler’s The Decline of the West—a fascinating (and controversial!) work of historical philosophy that reflects my lifelong curiosity about patterns of thought and civilization. I live in Michigan and always enjoy working with students who are eager to think critically and challenge themselves intellectually.