Miami-Dade County School Board Chair Mari Tere Rojas delivered an inspiring address during the 2024 State of the School District, highlighting the collective efforts and unwavering commitment to providing an enriching, safe, and conducive learning environment for every student.
Chair Rojas acknowledged the distinguished members of the School Board, the Superintendent, educators, administrators, support staff, parents, and students for their collective efforts in advancing education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS).
Rojas highlighted several key achievements during her speech, emphasizing that M-DCPS has reached its highest graduation rate of 94.2% for traditional public schools, surpassing the state average of 88%. The district also proudly maintains an “A” rating for the fifth consecutive year and is recognized as the third-largest school district in the nation.
Among the notable accomplishments, Rojas pointed out that M-DCPS boasts the largest school police department in the country, with over 450 officers dedicated to ensuring student safety. Additionally, in 2023, 61% of M-DCPS students who took Advanced Placement exams scored three or higher, outperforming the state average by nearly 5%.
The district continues to strengthen partnerships with institutions of higher learning, offering dual enrollment courses through Miami-Dade College, Florida International University, Florida Memorial University, University of Miami, and Barry University. Magnet Schools of America has recognized M-DCPS with 84 awards for the 2023-2024 award cycle, the highest number of any school district nationwide.
Rojas also noted that over the past five years, more than 8,000 M-DCPS graduating seniors have earned the Florida Seal of Biliteracy, with over 1,400 receiving the silver seal. In April 2024, the U.S. News & World Report ranked three M-DCPS high schools in the Top 100 Best High Schools in the United States, while 16 schools made the Top 100 in Florida.
Despite these successes, Rojas emphasized the district’s ongoing challenges, including ensuring safety and security, expanding early childhood programs, addressing teacher shortages, and advocating for improved education funding. The district remains committed to creating an inclusive culture where every student is valued and supported.
In closing, Chair Rojas expressed gratitude to Superintendent Dr. Jose L. Dotres for his leadership and vision. She encouraged collaboration among school board members, educators, and the community to enhance student success and parental support.
“The state of our school system is strong because of our students, teachers, administrators, school police officers, workforce, parents, community, and local leaders,” Rojas stated, reaffirming the commitment to the M-DCPS community and its future.
