Meet The Team — Manuel Jaramillo, 4th Grade PE Teacher

At our Old Coors campus, this team member recently celebrated his three-year work anniversary. He leads fourth-grade physical education and creates a safe space for students to learn new skills and build healthy habits they can use outside school. A former aquatic rehabilitation technician and Little League umpire, he brings patience, structure and a love of sport to every class. Meet Mr. Jaramillo, in his own words…

MAS: Where did you grow up, and what did you hope to be?

Mr. Jaramillo: I grew up in Espanola, New Mexico. I wanted to be an athletic trainer and work on injury management and rehabilitation for sports teams.

MAS: What did you do before joining us here at MAS?

Mr. Jaramillo: I worked for Presbyterian as an aquatic rehabilitation technician.

MAS: Tell us about your college path.

Mr. Jaramillo: I graduated cum laude from the University of New Mexico in fall 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science.

MAS: Going back a bit, what was your first job?

Mr. Jaramillo: I was a Little League umpire for the local league in Espanola. I loved everything about it, from the free concession stand food to teaching younger players the rules and skills of baseball.

MAS: How would you describe your teaching approach?

Mr. Jaramillo: I focus on providing a safe place to try new things and improve skills. I also work on building healthy-lifestyle habits by giving students activities they can easily repeat in and out of school.

MAS: What do you want people to know about MAS?

Mr. Jaramillo: It is a wonderful school filled with a lot of love. There is love for education and safety, and there is a deep love for students. There is nothing more important to the staff than creating positive outcomes for students, not only academically but in life.

MAS: What might surprise people about you?

Mr. Jaramillo: I am an avid hunter, and I enjoy getting out into the mountains of Northern New Mexico.

MAS: Last question… What’s your favorite restaurant and go-to order?

Mr. Jaramillo: I like the Thai Cuisine in Rio Rancho. It is my go-to for everything Thai.