This school year marks 62 years of bilingual education at Coral Way K-8 Center, the nation’s first bilingual school. As principal, I am incredibly proud to be part of a legacy that began with innovation and continues to offer families an excellent educational choice within Miami-Dade County Public Schools. This year also marks a personal milestone: my tenth year leading this historic institution. It’s a journey that fills me with pride and gratitude.
From a very young age, I loved communicating and connecting with others. Teaching combines my passion for learning with my desire to make meaningful connections, and that calling ultimately guided me into this lifelong profession.
This year represents my 26 years of service in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving our district as a teacher, reading coach, assistant principal, and principal. It fills my heart to look back and think about all the students I have witnessed growing, learning, and succeeding. The thought of this inspires me every day.
My leadership journey began in 2006 as Assistant Principal at what was then Ada Merritt Elementary. The school’s transition from Ada Merritt Elementary to Ada Merritt K–8 Center marked a pivotal moment in my professional journey. As the institution expanded to include middle school grades, I gained invaluable experience that deepened my understanding of adolescent education and enhanced my ability to support both teachers and students.
At the historical Coral Way K-8 Center, I strive to lead with collaboration, consistency, and compassion. Building genuine relationships, listening to diverse perspectives, and working side by side with staff are essential parts of how we serve our students. Leadership requires organization and flexibility, being firm yet approachable. Empowering others while keeping our mission to serve children at the center of all we do remains my daily goal.
The absolute best part of being an educator is having a front-row seat to growth and transformation. Watching students develop academically, socially, and emotionally reminds me daily of the power of education and innovation. I also value the opportunity to partner with families, helping them navigate the joys and challenges of raising children and creating a school environment that feels like an extended family, and watching so many amazing teachers spread the magic of learning year after year!
Balancing the many responsibilities of meeting student needs, supporting staff, and engaging families requires reflection, adaptability, and perseverance. Challenges strengthen us and help us grow.
More than anything, I hope my students learn the value of perseverance and teamwork. Life doesn’t require us to be perfect, but it does require us to keep trying. My goal is for them to know that success comes from effort, resilience, and collaboration. By working hard, leaning on others when needed, and finding creative solutions together, we all succeed.
If there’s a legacy I hope to leave, it’s one built on the unwavering pillars of trust, compassion, and dedication. Leadership is offering a word of encouragement when someone needs it most, providing a helping hand without being asked, or simply being present and showing up when it truly matters. This is the mark I strive to leave—one of genuine connection and heartfelt support.
I am profoundly grateful to be a part of a profession that has the power to shape not just futures, but entire lives. It is an even greater honor to lead a school as historic and inspiring as Coral Way K-8 Center. This institution stands as a living testament to the excellence provided by Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and a shining example of why M-DCPS is the very best choice for our community’s families.
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