Play It Smart is a program designed to partner Academic Coaches with at-risk athletes. The Academic Coach works as a professional educator to help the students excel and advocate for themselves. The game plan is to help student-athletes take responsibility for their futures through lessons learned in sports, in the classroom and in service to others.
Play It Smart builds on the positive peer pressure of the team and its participant's interest in sports. The program's academic coaches are trained in a set of guiding principles and a variety of tactics, which are designed to make academic achievement the norm. Working closely with the direct support a team's head coach and others in the community, Academic Coaches hold one-on-one goal setting meetings, career and life skills sessions, mandatory study halls, SAT/ACT prep classes, community service projects and other team building events.
Miguel Ulloa is a dedicated educator and academic advocate with 19 years of experience as a Play It Smart Academic Coach, supporting student-athletes in balancing academic success, personal growth, and athletic commitment. A New Brunswick High School Class of 2002 graduate, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Art History from Norwich University and a Master of Education in Psychology with a concentration in Athletic Counseling from Springfield College. Miguel combines academic rigor, counseling insight, and a passion for mentorship to empower students to reach their full potential in the classroom, in competition, and beyond.
Jasmin Rankins is an Academic Counselor dedicated to supporting students in achieving their academic, personal, college and career goals. A native of New Brunswick who proudly still resides in the community, she is deeply committed to giving back to the city that helped shape her.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Howard University in 2008 and is a 2025 graduate of Rutgers University, where she obtained her Master’s in Social Work. She returned “home” in 2018 when she started her position at the high school as a Play It Smart Academic Coach, driven by her belief in community investment and representation. In her current role, she works closely with students and families to provide guidance, encouragement, and access to information and resources.
Mrs. Rankins is passionate about helping students navigate challenges, build confidence, and prepare for life beyond high school. Her goal is to ensure every student feels seen,supported and inspired.
I was born and raised in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where I developed a deep appreciation for community and the power of education. After graduating from New Brunswick High School in 2012, I pursued my academics, and earned an Associate’s Degree in History from Middlesex County College and a Bachelor’s Degree from Montclair State University. Currently, I am furthering my education by pursuing a Master’s in School Counseling at Seton Hall University. I’ve always been drawn to working with students and advocating for mental health. Whether it’s through community service or creating supportive spaces, I believe in the power of empathy and resilience to make a difference. When I’m not studying or working, you’ll find me cheering on my favorite team, Everton, or hanging out with my family and fiance, my dog, Lilly, and my rescue cat, Sammy Davis Jr. I’m a firm believer in finding joy in the little things, whether it’s a good soccer game, a quiet moment with my pets, or lending a hand to someone in need.
Life has taught me that growth happens when we care for ourselves and each other, and I’m here for it—one step, one goal, and one small act of kindness at a time.