Coral Gables Friends of Education honored the Miami Christian fifth grade students at the annual Elementary School Achievement Breakfast, held April 27 at the Westin Colonnade. MCS was one of only four schools selected to participate in the event recognizing top students and applauding community service.
Students recognized were joined by family and friends for the program that included sage remarks by Coral Gables Chamber CEO and President, Mark Trowbridge, along with a musical presentation of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Actors Playhouse Theater for Young Audiences, directed by Earl Maulding.
Student nominees for certificates and medals included Katelyn Arista, Nathaniel Barahona, Allison Bean who gave the event invocation, Andre Caputo, Javier Fernandez, Henry Gonzalez, Jaqueline Gonzalez, Sophia Granado, Anna Kuwano, Seth Lembert, Nicole Martinez, Christine Rosillo, Muhammad Salem, Gisselle Villanueva, and Hannah Zaldivar.
More honors for MCS students included brothers Marcus and , both MCS seniors accepted into the prestigious QBIC program at Florida International University. QBIC is an intensive science/pre-med program designed to provide research and scholarship opportunities to students who meet the stringent qualifications. Both Marcus and Marlon expect to continue medical studies after completing their bachelor’s degrees at FIU.
A surprise visitor at MCS was Channel 10’s Kristi Krueger who came to interview Silver Knight nominee, Brandon Rodriguez for a story to be aired on her morning show. Brandon wrote a book for elementary students on the history of Sunil’s Home, the orphanage in India MCS supports through proceeds from sales of its organic garden produce, elementary lemonade stand, and gifts from the high school’s National Beta Club. In his book, Rodriguez told the story of how the school started the garden with grants and gifts from local beneficiaries with photos taken the last four years that document the wonderful success of this global alliance. Krueger also spoke with elementary students involved in the project, taking time to visit the organic garden, too.
The Independent Schools of South Florida (ISSF) held its 21st Annual “Stars Awards” Luncheon April 13 at the Doubletree Miami Mart Plaza. More than 800 people and 56 schools attended this prestigious event when Andrea Garcia, Alina Andrews and Muhammed Salem were among the top MCS students singled out for the honor.
Improvements keep coming at MCS. Most recently, the MCS Parent-Teacher Fellowship provided a remodeled indoor eating area for the elementary students, through its fund-raising events. Students enjoyed a ribbon cutting ceremony in April, each class representative cutting a ribbon section.
As we approach the end of the school year, concerts, musicals, sports and graduation activities are keeping everyone extra-busy and looking forward to a productive summer. The last day of school is May 26 for Middle and Elementary students, May 27 for Senior High. For those interested in future admission, call Gladys Mata. Summer hours and schedule for the office staff: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
