Arnita Kethireddy
North Side Elementary School

Arnita Kethireddy, a literacy coach at North Side Elementary School, is a 26-year veteran teacher. A desire to instill the love of learning in children is the reason she became an educator. “Our job as educators is to help students see their potential,” said Kethireddy. “The joy that I experience when children are engaged in authentic learning inspires me to come to work each and every day.” 

Dr. Miranti Murphy
Boulevard Heights Elementary School

Dr. Miranti Murphy has spent the last six of her 36 years in education as the literacy coach at Boulevard Heights Elementary School. “I’m inspired by the opportunity to meet the needs of a diverse student population and to prepare students for real-world experiences and expectations, including college and career readiness,” said Murphy.

Dr. Iris Payan
Hollywood Hills High School

Dr. Iris Payan, a chemistry teacher at Hollywood Hills High School for the last 19 years, combines 21st-century skills and life lessons in her science classes. She has witnessed her students grow in science literacy and become productive young adults. “The best reward is when students graduate and return to thank me for the academic and life lessons they learned in my class,” Payan said. Genuinely caring for her students, she establishes a safe environment to make connections on a personal level and encourages them to believe that they can overcome any challenge.

Cari Rodriguez
Harbordale Elementary School

Cari Rodriguez, a 21-year veteran educator, has spent the last six years at Harbordale Elementary School, where she serves as the literacy coach. Whenever possible, she combines fun with learning. “Student achievement is my inspiration,” says Rodriguez. “Whether building an igloo while studying the Inuit, eating pasta puttanesca while reading, or dancing and singing to multiplication facts, I want my students to enjoy learning.

Sarah Zorn-Milmed
West Broward High School

Sarah Zorn-Milmed, a biology teacher at West Broward High School, has taught for 18 years. She believes that every student has the potential to soar if given the opportunity and support to help them reach their academic and life goals. “My inspiration comes from my students. I do everything in my power to ensure that they meet success on their individual paths,” Zorn-Milmed said. She encourages and provides the support necessary to help students not only succeed but excel.