Math Department
As a department we strive to meet the needs of a variety of students in a diverse socio-economic culture. One of our top priorities is to adequately prepare both college bound students and students who will enter the work force following graduation. Placement at the freshman level is made to accommodate all students for success throughout their high school mathematics careers. Course offerings begin with Regular Algebra 1 a and continue through Calculus.
We are also currently making changes in our curriculum to align classes with the Common Core Standards. Using these standards as a guide, we expect to promote rigor and relevance in all mathematics courses offered. Through implementation of the Common Core Standards we will also encourage students to use higher order thinking skills in their work.
Math Department Staff
Tamara Coughlon is the lead teacher of the Math department and boasts over 30 years of teaching experience. She primarily teaches Algebra I, II, and Applied Mathematics. Originally from Mascoutah, Illinois, she attended Mascoutah High School before going on to McKendree University and Eastern Illinois University to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education and a minor in Speech Communication and Physical Education. She shares, “My why is the East Peoria students. I love my job because of them. I love the diversity of our students and how so many of them are accepting of others.” Outside of work, she shares that her family keeps her pretty busy.
Hannah Zachman is a part of the Math department and is in her third year of teaching at EPCHS. She primarily teaches Applied Algebra and Academic Algebra; she is also the head coach of the Raiderette Dance Team, the choreographer of the school musical, and the Co-Advisor of Student Council. Originally from Peoria, Illinois, she attended Dunlap High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Illinois State University. Ms. Zachman loves creating connections with students while sharing her love of math. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Scarlett.
Matt Plummer is a member of the Math department and has over 29 years of experience at EPCHS. He primarily teaches geometry and pre-calculus. He is also the Head Coach of the Varsity Boys Baseball team. He shares, "I was married to my wife Anissa in 1994 who teaches 3rd grade at Bolin School in East Peoria. I graduated from Illinois State University with a B.S. in secondary mathematics education in 1995. I began teaching mathematics at East Peoria Community High School in August of 1995. My son Jake was born in 1996 and daughter Haley in 1999. Through my tenure at E.P.C.H.S. I have earned a masters degree in education through Olivet Nazarene University and a masters degree in school administration with a type 75 certificate through St. Xavier University."
Alex Vanwinkle is a part of the Math department at EPCHS with over 30 years of experience, 22 of those at EPCHS. He primarily teaches Geometry and Calculus. Originally from Peoria, he attended Richwoods High School before earning his Bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University and his Master’s degree from Olivet Nazarine University. Mr. Van is a beloved staple part of our school fueled by a passion for teaching the students of East Peoria. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening and Neil Young.
Joseph Hruban is a member of the Math department with 11 years of teaching experience, 6 of those being at EPCHS. Mr. Hruban is the Head Coach of the Sophomore Baseball team and primarily teaches Applied Geometry, Academic Geometry, and Dual Credit Math 99 and Math 111. Originally from Midlothian, Illinois, he attended Bremen High School before going to University of Illinois and St. Xavier University to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education. He later went on to earn a Master’s degree in Mathematics from Illinois State University. He appreciates the trust in employees at EPCHS that empowers him to educate with autonomy and focus on the needs of all his students. Outside of work, he enjoys working out and coaching baseball.
Jimmy Piad is a part of the Math department at EPCHS and has been a teacher for 11 years. He primarily teaches Applied Mathematics and Academic Algebra. Originally from the Philippines, Mr. Paid is an international teacher under a cultural exchange program where he is given the opportunity to share his culture and learn the culture of the United States. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from the university of St. La Salle. He loves EPCHS because it is a community where he feels accepted, appreciated and supported as a teacher. Outsider of work, he enjoys dancing, singing, learning, and playing with computers.