Biography

Monse Jaramillo, a passionate educator, is thrilled to join the Alta Vista School community as the Fifth Grade Science Teacher. A proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Monse brings over eight years of diverse K-8 teaching experience from both public and private institutions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Creating Educational Equity and a Master of Arts in Learning and Teaching, along with a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, all from the University of Redlands.

Monse's educational philosophy deeply aligns with Alta Vista's inquiry-based STEAM program. She believes in empowering students to be active explorers and knowledge-makers, serving as a guide who fosters a genuine love for scientific discovery through hands-on experiences. Her approach emphasizes real-world investigations, such as designing and implementing a year-long garden curriculum and guiding students in engineering practices like analyzing marble mazes to build stronger structures. Monse thoughtfully integrates technology and design thinking into scientific exploration, ensuring students learn to leverage these powerful tools to question, observe, predict, measure, and analyze for themselves.

Known for developing deep connections with families and prioritizing student well-being, Monse creates safe, positive, and collaborative learning environments where students feel truly seen and supported. She cultivates a growth mindset and critical thinking, emphasizing social-emotional learning and leveraging student identity and neurodiversity for the growth of all.

Outside the classroom, Monse enjoys baking, reading, practicing yoga, and continuously learning new skills, reflecting her commitment to lifelong discovery.