The annual District 6 Town Hall meeting was held on Tuesday, Nov. 12, where students from various schools across the district showcased their talents by performing dances, cheers and songs. The tradition allowed students to become more comfortable performing in front of an audience and it recognized them for their hard work. Mari Tere Rojas returned for her second year as the representative of Miami-Dade County to host the event and support her district.
Mari Tere Rojas, the Miami Dade County School Board Chair, hosted the annual District 6 Town Hall and Award Ceremony. After being an educator for over 45 years, she advanced through the ranks of the education system and was elected for a second term as the Representative for District 6. After authoring numerous books and earning countless awards and accolades, Rojas now proudly represents the third-largest district in the country.
To commence the meeting, all attendees remained standing for the Presentation of Colors by South Miami Senior High’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. The patriotic demonstration was followed by Ludlam Elementary students announcing the Pledge of Allegiance and Coral Gables Preparatory students singing the national Anthem.
“Being at the event helped me to experience something that happens once in a lifetime. I was mistress of ceremonies with Melissa Hernandez, and in general, we work well together… so I feel like this went smoothly. Once we were mic’d up and ready to go, we got to see many familiar and new faces. Overall, this was a great opportunity, and if I was given the chance to do it again, I would,” senior Angelina Morffi said.
The Gablettes performed their kick routine to the song “Dreams” by the Cranberries. This routine had previously been showcased at the Karpiak Memorial and Fall Frolics and was performed for the final time at the town hall meeting. The hard work and passion for dance was seen in each kick and the smiles never left the dancers’ faces throughout the performance. Their enthusiasm transferred to the audience as they greeted the performers with cheers when they finished.
“The town hall meeting was an incredibly memorable experience. It was wonderful to be a part of our community and to be recognized after receiving a certificate. Performing at the event was enjoyable, as it is something we all love to do. It felt great to be part of something bigger than ourselves,” sophomore Stella Gonzalez said.
At the event, many schools performed, either with a dance or a song. Coral Gables Preparatory Academy presented a dance by the Eagle Cheer Squad. Following them was Sunset Elementary, which sang the German song “Gänse-Schnattern” from Siegfried Fietz Kinderlieder. On stage next was the South Miami Middle School dance team. At last, George Washington Carver Elementary performed “L’italiano” from Toto Cutugno.
“The town hall meeting was an excellent experience, with the team dancing together. There was a slight mishap when our music overlapped with the Star-Spangled Banner, but we persevered and overcame the challenge. Overall we demonstrated great sportsmanship through our dancing, making it a memorable event. I enjoyed the opportunity to share our school’s talent with the community,” sophomore Alexandra Costa said.
After watching all the performances, students received awards in various categories. Students from different schools were recognized for achievements such as being the most improved, maintaining perfect attendance and having academic excellence.
The District 6 Town Hall and Awards Ceremony highlighted the talent and dedication of Miami-Dade County schools. The event and the rewards that were presented along with it, help to motivate, recognize and inspire the hardworking students of District 6, ensuring that they stay dedicated to both their scholarly and extracurricular activities.
“Going into the event, I did not know what to expect. I was grateful that I had the opportunity to speak in front of a huge crowd and especially present the awards. Mari Tere Rojas presented awards for academic excellence, perfect attendance and most improved. It was nice to see all these schools within our community come together and create memories,” senior Melissa Hernandez.
