
South Miami Middle School
Founded 1956
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
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.
Curriculum
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
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 IzaguirrePrincipalMs. 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-SanzAssistant PrincipalDr. 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 QuesadaTheater DirectorMr. Quesada serves as the Theater Director and holds a Bachelor's degree in Theater.
Mrs. Yaneysi OkyleMagnet LeadMrs. Okyle serves as the Magnet Lead and holds an M.S. in Education.
Ms. Keyaira HendersonMagnet Choir DirectorMs. Henderson serves as the Magnet Choir Director.
Mr. Francisco R. WilliamsMagnet INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DirectorMr. 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.
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