Manzano High School

Manzano is, overall, a good school for both the average student and honors child alike. The majority of the teachers here are caring, attentive, and educated, and will strive to promote the success of their students. The AP program is excellent and a wonderful environment for teens to grow and learn about the world. However, my experience in regular classes has shown a decreased interest in learning and education on both the part of the students and the teachers. It really takes motivation to encourage a smooth and enlightening learning environment, but if the right student-teacher relationship is established, regular classes can be fantastic. These teachers know their stuff, if students are willing to learn. On a brighter note, the Music, Art, and Sports programs are TOP-NOTCH. I've been involved in both music and art for three years now, and it's the best thing I've ever done. Manzano's Guitar Program features extremely gifted teachers with extended experience in performance, music theory, composition, and music production, and all these and more are brought into the classroom on a regular basis. Concerts allow solo opportunities, as well as some fantastic songs to learn that range from highly advanced classical tunes to rock, blues, and jazz, both modern and classic. I would absolutely recommend this program to any aspiring musician. The art program is wonderful, but can be improved with perhaps slightly more educated and enthusiastic teachers. It's hard to fight the misconception that Art class is an easy A, so while artists can take the class and learn some valuable techniques and have large amounts of studio time, they also have to contend with those in the class just to pass. Otherwise, great opportunities are provided for young artists! The Albuquerque Metro Art Show, a local juried show that takes place once a year, allows high school students to submit their art for an opportunity to win cash, awards, scholarships, and recogition for their work. It's a fantastic show that showcases beautiful art, and it's such an accomplishment to see art, especially one's own art, in a public gallery like that! There are numerous opportunities for students to earn awards and recognition at Manzano. Involvement in community service, sports, and academic programs all can earn one special awards and scholarships. Of course, it takes time and dedication, but it's worth it. Manzano has been under construction continually for years, but the newest additions are stunning wings of brightly lit, beautiful classrooms. The music building is fantastic and built just for its purpose- producing music. There are numerous places for students to buy and eat food, and the sports facilities are spacious and well-kept. Overall, a beautiful school, despite the noise and distractions that construction sometimes causes. Parents are a noticeable force at Manzano. Several staff members have children at the school, and parent involvment in school events such as dances and games is huge. Manzano is a great school overall, and I would highly recommend it!