Youth Spotlight: Cottonwood Valley Charter student serves as Lt. Governor for a day

Andres Jaramillo of Cottonwood Valley Charter School spent a day at the Roundhouse stepping into a role few 14-year-old students ever experience, serving as New Mexico’s Lt. Governor for a day.

Jaramillo, an active student whose hobbies include football, golf, 4‑H County Council, hunting, fishing and archery, said the experience gave him a firsthand look at how state leaders work together to solve problems.

“The most exciting part was meeting our Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales and watching the way our leaders worked together to come up with solutions,” he said.

Jaramillo said the day taught him lessons he hopes other young people will take to heart. 

“Our voices matter. Leadership starts with caring about others and speaking up for what you believe in,” he said.

Representing his school and community at the Capitol was a moment of pride.

 “I felt mostly proud realizing that I was representing my community, and it inspires me to become a future leader,” he said.

Jaramillo already has a clear vision for the kind of leadership he hopes to bring to New Mexico. One idea he shared with state officials focused on expanding opportunities for youth.

“One great idea would be more after‑school programs to help young adults learn new skills and explore their interests,” he said.

The experience also reshaped how he views government.

 “It showed me that it is about responsibility, teamwork and helping others, not just being in charge,” he said. “The decisions made at higher levels affect everyone in New Mexico and in their everyday life.”

Jaramillo hopes to become a mechanical technician and a servant leader in his community. He said the day at the Capitol strengthened that goal.

During his interview, Jaramillo also said that he wanted to thank Howie Morales for this opportunity.