MIRAMAR, 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.
Jamie Zachareas is a middle school teacher who has guided her students through civics projects and drama competitions all while pregnant with twins.
Local 10’s Community Relations Director Mayte Padron had the opportunity get to know with the eighth-grade teacher, whose good luck seems to come in pairs.
Zachareas has been an eighth-grade history teacher and drama coach at Somerset Academy Miramar for two years.
She was named rookie teacher of the year and manages to get the drama club up and competition ready.
“We were able to start a troupe. That troupe went on to district and did successfully,” said Zachareas.
Last year she found out she was pregnant with twin girls, Lily and Luna.
“A lot of amazing things happened, so I am very grateful,” said Zachareas.
Mayte surprised the mom-to-be with some good news. She was chosen to be a Local 10 Tribute to Teachers Honoree.
“It’s a beautiful thing to be recognized at all for any of it, so I am very grateful right now. I’m surprised,” said Zachareas.
In addition to being recognized, Publix Super Markets’ Media Relations Manager Robyn Hankerson Printemps was with us to present Jamie with a gift.
“On behalf of Publix Super Markets, we want to make today a little more special for you. So, we want to present you with $1,000 in Publix gift cards,” said Printemps.
“This is a big blessing. I am beyond honored, and appreciative and blown away. Thank you very much,” said Zachareas.
A second celebration was waiting for her outside. Her students gathered to show their heartfelt appreciation.
“I won a very good award because of you, and I just love your class and you in general since you’re such a good person,” said Ethan Clarke, a student.
Jamie’s daughter Cadence, a fifth grader at the school, was also there to celebrate her mother.
“Congratulations. You really deserved it because you worked hard,” said Cadance Zachareas.
Jamie Zachareas is due to have her twins next month. She said once she is back from maternity leave, she plans to win more awards for the drama program.
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.
