In front of her students, teachers and fellow administrators, Miami-Dade’s newest Principal of The Year got something unexpected from winning that award: a brand new car.
Maritza Jimenez, who has been the leader of Hialeah Gardens Middle School since 2008, was presented with a 2017 Toyota Corolla on Friday at the school from Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho and Toyota of Hollywood.
"It’s an extreme honor. I feel so humbled to receive this," Jimenez said. "I’m just honored to represent all my colleagues and friends."
Jimenez has been in public education for more than 20 years. During her time at the school, test scores and attendance have risen while the school has become part of the International Cambridge Program and instituted several academies.
"It’s good for my kids and my students to see that when you work hard, you get back what you deserve," said Jimenez.
Carvalho called Jimenez a "stunning example of fantastic leadership."
"There are over 500 principals in Miami-Dade, so to be the best you need to be a terrific instructional leader, you need to be a community leader and you need to deliver big results," he said. "Maritza has delivered in all three categories."
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Jimenez will now compete for best principal in the state.
