HIALEAH, Fla. – Every year, Local 10′s Tribute to Teachers campaign recognizes the best educators in South Florida, with only five honorees selected from hundreds of nominations.
Marely Mollinedo has taught at South Hialeah Elementary for 27 years and her name is synonymous with dedication.
And for nearly 30 years, she has literally gone the distance.
“I come all the way from Country Walk to Hialeah. It has been my only school. They keep me going and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. I love what I do,” said Mollinedo.
And all of her students love her. Marely teaches a blended fifth grade reading class that includes special needs students.
“I moved her from second grade last year to fifth grade this year, because she’s awesome in terms of student achievement and moving our students exactly where they need to go,” said Dr. Dillon Williams, Principal of South Hialeah Elementary.
Her students say they always feel her love, as soon as they walk into her classroom.
“From the first time that I walked into this classroom, she has always loved me. She has always cared for me. She has always been the best teacher for me,” said Orniel Cruz, a fifth-grade student.
In addition to being recognized, Publix Super Markets’ Media Relations Manager Robyn Hankerson Printemps was with us to present Marely with a gift.
“On behalf of Publix Super Markets, we want to thank you for everything that you do to help educate our kids and be a real shining light for them. So, we want to present you with $1,000 in Publix gift cards,” said Printemps.
Marely’s students also enjoyed some cake as South Hialeah Elementary was celebrating its centennial anniversary, giving Local 10 100 more reasons to celebrate the school and the extraordinary educator.
Marely’s husband is also an educator. Combined, the two have taught South Florida students for nearly 60 years.
To see the stories of all the winners, click here.
All of the winning teachers will be introduced each day this week during Local 10′s 5:30 p.m. newscast.