Art I, Graphic Design, Yearbook, and JV cheerleading. Four seemingly unrelated subjects, but at Carlmont, they have one thing in common. Joseph Espinosa.
Espinosa teaches Art I and Graphic Design, serves as the yearbook adviser, and is an assistant coach for junior varsity cheerleading. He’s been instructing at Carlmont for three years and has always had a natural affinity for teaching.
“People have certain talents. I think my talent is that I’ve always been good with younger people, like kids,” Espinosa said.
Before teaching at Carlmont, Espinosa began his journey toward becoming a teacher as a gymnastics coach. However, Espinosa didn’t truly transition from coaching to teaching until he was in his 40s when he earned his master’s degree at Santa Clara University.
He completed his student teaching at Monta Vista High School but secured his first teaching position at Los Gatos High School, where he worked for three years before joining the Carlmont community. At Carlmont, Espinosa has built great relationships with various people.
“I have great colleagues in my department and enjoy talking with those I’ve met around the school. There’s a really supportive administrative team, and the students I’ve had so far here have been wonderful. I’ve also met some great parents,” Espinosa said.
He has also made lasting impressions on many of his students with his positive attitude and patience in the classroom.
“Mr. Espinosa is always in high spirits and constantly tries to help you with whatever you need,” said Aniyah Bartley, a sophomore taking Yearbook.
Espinosa maintains his upbeat attitude in all his classes, which students show gratitude for.
“Mr. Espinosa is really nice, and he’s always very happy and enthusiastic in class,” said Jad Kayali, a junior in one of Espinosa’s Art I classes.
When he’s not in the classroom, Espinosa spends his time as the assistant coach of Carlmont’s JV cheerleading team.
“I was a cheerleader, so it’s definitely something that has brought me a lot of enjoyment,” Espinosa said.
Whether he’s out on the field with the cheerleading team, in the classroom teaching, or simply chatting with a student in the hallway, Espinosa’s passion for helping students shines through.
“I think the most rewarding part of teaching so far is seeing young people experiencing joy and happiness,” Espinosa said.
