After Mr. Barnes’ abrupt departure last fall, Ms. Manuel has been appointed as interim vice principal. Manuel shared her goals in the position and experiences as a long-term Garfield teacher. 

“There’s never a dull moment here,” said Manuel. She’s taught at Garfield since 2000 when she began the culinary arts program. Since then, she’s taught health and nutritional wellness courses. Ms. Manuel has been in the interim vice principal position twice previously. She explained working with students, families, and teachers is “what really attracts [her] to this role.” An important goal of hers is keeping students inside the classroom. “I think that learning time is quite sacred,” Manuel said. 

“As a high school student, there’s a lot of things you can’t control–but education is something you really can control,” Manuel explained that kids in this country should take advantage of the opportunities presented to them, and realize it isn’t possible in a lot of places around the world. “Taking advantage of that opportunity can really help your future,” Manuel said.  

She believes she’s the right person for the vice principal position, and hopes to have the opportunity to continue permanently. Manuel explained that student perceptions of her are very strict and tough, “but if you want the job done, Ms. Manuel is the one to do it.” She expects students to take care of business and doesn’t like messing around. 

One of Manuel’s favorite aspects of being an educator is seeing former students’ journeys and how far they’ve come. One of her former culinary arts students is the owner of Jerk Shack, a Caribbean restaurant in the Central District. “I know who I am, and I know I was tough, but the fact I had a part in that is great.” Manuel is optimistic about the future of Garfield. “I think it can only get better.” She’s looking forward to continuing her role here and hopes to help create a safe and supportive learning environment at the school. 

In an effort to give student advice to the Garfield administration, Junior student Hannah Shafer shared her thoughts. “One of the issues is a lot of teachers get a power trip,” said Shafer. “I feel like in order to be respected [by students], you have to respect them.” 

As for the current crackdown on students in the hallways? “It feels like there’s a new crackdown every couple months,” stated Shafer. “It’s like nothing works.” She explained that restricting hall pass usage, makes everyone else suffer. 

Communication between the administration and student body is another issue Shafer voiced. “I feel like we actually don’t get any communication about anything.” She shared her interest in receiving more direct student emails about Garfield security and policy changes and brought up a similar issue between teachers who “even amongst themselves don’t have a good level of communication.” She expressed her frustration with some teachers strictly enforcing hall pass policy and others not caring when students leave class. “It’s super confusing,” stated Shafer. 

As Ms. Manuel takes on the responsibility of Interim Vice Principal and sets her sights on preserving the learning space at Garfield, seeing the student perspective is critical for a successful tenure.