dancing for the James W. McCandlish Memorial Art Scholarship and the Larry K. Wilson Memorial Scholarship
Matt McCandlish is a lifelong resident of Zanesville, deeply committed to his community through education, coaching, and the arts. A dedicated teacher at Zanesville High School, he shares his passion for music and career readiness by teaching guitar and CTE courses.
From 2009-2024, Matt served as a soccer coach for Zanesville City Schools, mentoring student-athletes and fostering teamwork and sportsmanship. His dedication to students extends beyond the classroom and the field, as he actively participates in community initiatives.
Matt is a devoted husband to Christy McCandlish and a proud father to three children- Josh, Allie, and James. He is currently dancing in support of the James W. McCandlish Memorial Art Scholarship and the Larry K. Wilson Memorial Scholarship, honoring the legacies of those who have made a lasting impact on the Zanesville community.
The late Jim McCandlish, Matt’s father, was a beloved art teacher and coach at Zanesville High School for more than 30 years. The James W. McCandlish Memorial Art Scholarship was founded in his honor, to assist aspiring ZHS visual art students with college costs. The Larry K. Wilson Memorial Scholarship was established following the death of Larry K. Wilson, ZHS Band Director, on December 31, 1986. This scholarship is available to seniors and alumni of the ZHS band or Blue Knights who are planning a career in instrumental music.
