Hey! I’m Manuel, co-founder of A.C.K. Academy, where I combine my interest in learning science with a background in Applied Mathematics from Columbia University. Over the past five years, I’ve taught computer science to elementary students at Khan Lab School in Palo Alto, mentored middle and high schoolers across the U.S. on Computer Science and AI projects, and provided private tutoring in economics, physics, computer science, and mathematics.

At A.C.K. Academy, we're applying principles from learning science to improve education—helping students build the cognitive skills that drive meaningful, long-term learning. I believe our education system needs fundamental change: one that respects how the brain actually learns, embraces self-directed learning, and prioritizes student-centered approaches over rigid, one-size-fits-all models. We need environments that nurture students’ natural learn drive, help them reconnect with their curiosity, and cultivate the deep understanding that comes from engaging with something truly interesting and personally meaningful.

I’ve always been curious about how things—and people—work. Outside of A.C.K. Academy, you’ll often find me reading non-fiction at a local café, cycling around NYC, or exploring mindfulness through meditation.

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