Teacher besties profile: Ms. Youngblood-Jarman and Mr. Oliveros

Photos taken by Nyda Hosack

Twenty years ago, Ms. Youngblood Jarman and Mr. Oliveros started the friendship that would eventually blossom into a lifetime of laughter, support, and chaos. Right across the hall from each other reside this iconic duo — their proximity allows them to pretty much always be together. From spending their lunches with each other to traveling to Europe, their adventures are endless.

One of this friendship’s earliest memories was when Oliveros worked as a clerk in the main office. He always viewed Youngblood as a “chaotic lady” that always “[ran] into the office,” but what really sparked this friendship was an interaction between the two when Oliveros’ brother-in-law had passed away. Youngblood gifted Oliveros a children’s book for his niece, the daughter of said brother-in-law, and mourned the loss with him. This intimate moment showed him an empathetic, sweet, and genuine side of Youngblood that he hadn’t seen before. As the years pass, Oliveros still views her as “chaotic” with “several wheels spinning” in her head that “manifest themselves as duties [and] responsibilities,” and it’s something he admires greatly about her. 

Similarly, Youngblood’s first impression of Oliveros hasn’t changed much as well. She’s always viewed him as having a creative energy; however, instead of frantic and spontaneous, he has always had a sensible outlook on life. She appreciates Oliveros’ ability to have a stable sense of self because she believes her friends almost mirror who she is as a person. The two are like yin and yang: their traits balance each other and while also being totally unique.

“I think he knows who he is, which I appreciate. They say you’re the most like the people you hang out with. I can remember a few hard things, those are the things that I’m like... I’m glad we got through it together.”  - Ms. Youngblood Jarman

The two admit that one of their most memorable, challenging, and uniting experiences was sponsoring the class of 2017. From having their prom on two yachts to mic dropping at graduation, they’ve experienced events that would strengthen their friendship for years to come. They have also come together acting as parental figures for their students, imparting their knowledge on life, or just giving them advice they need. 

Away from teaching, traveling is something that these besties are known for. Having sponsored eight trips to Europe so far, their bond is international. Though they’ve experienced some hilarious and traumatic moments, like on the Paris Metro where Youngblood fell and tore her knee (again), they’re still adventures they cherish. 

If not teachers, Mr. Oliveros and Ms. Youngblood would put their extensive knowledge of the world to use and run a travel company. Having been to Europe so many times, they could easily make their way through and impart their knowledge — as well as some hilarious jokes — to tourists in the area. Not only would they be amazing at this role, but they would be able to travel frequently, as they love to do. 

Being the engaged teachers they are, balancing work and home can be a challenge. Both Ms. Youngblood and Mr. Oliveros value family, and consider each other to be part of their families as well. In the future, Oliveros hopes to buy a fixer upper home in Italy. Since the duo travel often, he said his dream vacation would be one “that never ends” and having a place to call home where family can come and visit whenever they want would fulfill that… even if he makes Ms. Youngblood clean the house for him in exchange for her staying there. 

Ms. Youngblood describes their lives as fun, but also chaotic. Thinking back to some of the things they accomplished, they are dumbfounded as to how they even got it done. They both feel that they match each other’s “craziness.” 

At the end of the day, even if Mr. Oliveros doesn’t trust Ms. Youngblood behind the wheel, the pair know that they are always there for each other, no matter what. This solid friendship is a beautiful part of our school community, and knowing the two together is truly magical. 

“Michelle Elaine Youngblood Jarman would get on a train, to get on a flight, to get on a bus, to get on a train to cross the country wherever. If I were to call her and say, I really need you right now. She would do that.”  - Mr. Oliveros