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As we begin a new school year, and mark our 140th year as a school district, I would like to take this opportunity to address our parents and families directly, outlining what they can expect from Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) and how we are preparing students for success, both academically and in life.
Keeping the Focus Where It Belongs: Academic Success
Academic excellence will continue to be a top priority. One key strategy is ensuring every child is reading on grade level by third grade—a powerful predictor of future success. But it does not stop there. We are also aligning what students learn in school with the real-world skills needed in Miami’s major industries like healthcare, aviation, finance, and technology. That means more hands-on learning and more community-based partnerships, so students see the connection between what they are learning and the world they are growing into.
Supporting the Whole Child—Mind and Body
This year, we continue to offer telehealth services for every student and their family. This ensures that students have access to both medical and mental health services Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., year-round. By connecting students with healthcare professionals in a timely manner, we are addressing barriers to traditional healthcare and supporting students’ overall well-being. Whether it is a check-up or a conversation with a mental health specialist, help is now just a click away. Healthy students are better learners, and we are committed to supporting every part of your child’s well-being.
More Choices, More Flexibility for Every Family
We are proud to be a choice district, giving families access to exceptional programs beyond their neighborhood school. From performing arts to cybersecurity, robotics to early college, our School Finder tool on dadeschools.net makes it easy to explore what is available.
New this year: families who homeschool or attend private schools can now enroll in individual M-DCPS courses, from languages to advanced sciences. It is a flexible, customizable way to support your child’s education, even if they are not enrolled full time.
Harnessing the Power of AI—Responsibly
Artificial Intelligence is here!. With tools like Gemini for Teens, students will explore how AI can support, not replace, their thinking and creativity. Teachers are also using AI to personalize instruction, build lesson plans, and measure learning more effectively. Used wisely, these tools open new doors for college- and career-bound students alike.
New College Pathways Start in High School
We are excited to expand our early admission partnerships with Miami Dade College, giving students a jumpstart on higher education while still in high school. Imagine your child walking into senior year already earning college credits and walking out ready for a degree and a career.
How We Prepared This Summer—So Students Can Thrive This Fall
Summers are anything but slow in M-DCPS. At our Synergy Conference, over 300 professional development sessions brought together thousands of educators to plan, grow, and align their efforts. The theme? Coherence, ensuring that every student receives consistent, high-quality instruction no matter where they are in the district. It’s part of how we earned an “A” rating for the sixth year in a row, and why our district is among the top 10 districts in Florida.
Let’s Start the Year Strong—Together
We are ready to welcome your children into a safe, caring, high-achieving environment where they will learn, grow, and thrive. But we can’t do it alone. I encourage you: Register early if you haven’t already.
Meet the principal and connect with the people who will help shape your child’s story this year.
Education is a team effort at M-DCPS, and you are a key part of that team.
Let’s make this school year the best one yet.
Warmly,
Dr. Jose L. Dotres
Superintendent
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
