Manzo Elementary

Daniel joined the Manzo staff in 2019 and has loved being at a school that has a garden and loves the students and families that make up the Barrio Hollywood school. He really enjoys the culture on campus as well as throughout the neighboring community. But Daniel is not just a teacher – he’s also the student council, Magic the Gathering, and Dungeons & Dragons advisor.  

Part of what he likes best of being in charge of clubs like Magic the Gathering, is using games to integrate math and reading skills. He also likes being able to get to know students in a setting that’s more relaxed than a typical classroom. 

“It’s a lot of fun and the kids just really enjoy it,” Daniel said of the clubs. “And we just have a good time without having to worry about learning targets.” 

Michelle got her start in education fairly recently. She used to work in recruitment for adoptive families for children in the foster care system. But she found herself needing a break from the intensive therapeutic services and joined Tucson Unified in 2022. After a year at a different school, Michelle found herself at Manzo and is now in her second year at the Barrio Hollywood school. 

Working at a school, Michelle finds that she has more diversity in her activities. She does shorter-term solutions, focused care in a system, and there’s more movement as she also gets into classrooms. 

She also works with small groups and helps with a myriad of issues, including grief, anxiety, skill building, social skills, and more. 

“I love it,” Michelle said. “I have no plans on going anywhere anytime soon.” 

Vikki is a 37-year employee of Tucson Unified and has spent 35 of those years in the office at Escuela Manzo. When she first started working for the district, she was a substitute teacher at various schools, but had heard great things about Manzo, so she decided to apply for a position once one became available. The students and staff over the years have felt like family to her and have been the main reason why Vikki has stayed in the Barrio Hollywood school. 

Although her tenure at Manzo has been fully spent working in the office, it hasn’t gotten boring. Instead, Vikki said there’s versatility working in a school office setting, as every day is different and there’s always a lot to do. 

“It’s never boring,” Vikki said.