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South Miami Middle School

Founded 1956

Updated July 2026

South Miami Middle School is a public magnet school serving grades 6-8, recognized as a Center for the Arts with a long-standing history of academic excellence. It provides a diverse community with specialized training in visual and performing arts alongside a rigorous core academic program.

Teaching approach

The school is committed to a theme of 'Focusing on Greatness,' emphasizing academic excellence, inclusivity, and student development. It aims to foster a supportive learning environment where curiosity is ignited and creativity flourishes, while maintaining a strong home-school partnership. The school prioritizes deep subject knowledge and critical thinking over rote learning.

Programmes

The school offers a core curriculum based on Florida’s B.E.S.T. Standards, covering English/language arts, mathematics, social sciences, and science. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, the school will implement the Cambridge International curriculum. Eight specialized magnet programs are available in Broadcast Arts, Chorus, Dance, Orchestra, Band, Photography, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Students may also pursue high school credit courses in subjects such as Algebra, Geometry, Physical Science, and Biology.

Outcomes

South Miami Middle School has maintained an 'A' letter grade from the Florida Department of Education for over two decades. It has been recognized as a 2026 Top Magnet School of Excellence. The school prepares students for high school and beyond through a rigorous curriculum.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
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Learning support

The school provides support through ESE and ESOL strategies integrated into classroom instruction. Student services are available to support the intellectual, social, and emotional well-being of students, including guidance counseling and access to a school resource officer. Remediation courses in reading and mathematics are available based on student assessment results.

Tuition & fees

No published fee schedule was found for this school.

Admissions

Prospective families can access registration packets and information regarding magnet orientations through the school website. The magnet program requires an audition process for entry, with specific requirements outlined for applicants. Tours of the magnet facilities are available by appointment.

Calendar

The school operates on a standard academic calendar, with the first day of school scheduled for August 13. The school year includes various events, such as uniform sales held in the media center during the summer months.

About the campus

The campus features specialized facilities for its magnet programs, including spaces for visual and performing arts. The school grounds include a main gate for student access and designated areas for bus, walker, and parent drop-off and pick-up. Additional facilities include a media center and athletic fields.

Co-curriculars

Students have access to over 10 clubs, including Chess, Mindfulness, Forensics, and Future Educators of America, with opportunities to join during 'Club Rush' week. The school also offers seasonal sports, with tryouts announced quarterly, and community-based after-school activities such as Taekwondo, soccer camp, cheerleading, and cooking classes.

  • Ms. Fabiola Izaguirre
    Ms. Fabiola IzaguirrePrincipal

    Ms. Izaguirre serves as the Principal of South Miami Middle School. She emphasizes a school-wide theme of "Focusing on Greatness" and is committed to maintaining high standards of excellence in academics, arts, and extracurricular activities.

  • Dr. Ingrid Perez-Sanz
    Dr. Ingrid Perez-SanzAssistant Principal

    Dr. Perez-Sanz has 21 years of experience in education and leadership, having served at South Miami Middle for the last 9 years. She holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership and an M.S. in Education, and her responsibilities include overseeing magnet departments, student services, and teacher observations.

  • Mr. Oscar Quesada
    Mr. Oscar QuesadaTheater Director

    Mr. Quesada serves as the Theater Director and holds a Bachelor's degree in Theater.

  • Mrs. Yaneysi Okyle
    Mrs. Yaneysi OkyleMagnet Lead

    Mrs. Okyle serves as the Magnet Lead and holds an M.S. in Education.

  • Ms. Keyaira Henderson
    Ms. Keyaira HendersonMagnet Choir Director

    Ms. Henderson serves as the Magnet Choir Director.

  • Mr. Francisco R. Williams
    Mr. Francisco R. WilliamsMagnet INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC Director

    Mr. Williams serves as the Magnet Instrumental Music Director. He holds an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and a B.S. in Music Education.

  • Mr. Alexander GonzalezMagnet BROADCAST ARTS Director

    Mr. Gonzalez serves as the Magnet Broadcast Arts Director.