Faculty and Staff  

Mr. Sotolongo

It is a great honor to serve the students, parents, teachers and staff of Coral Terrace Elementary School. It is my belief that educating children is the most valuable investment that a person can make. Teaching and caring for all the children in our school should be a cooperative effort by all the parents, staff and community. Together we can accomplish much more for our students than we would as individuals. I look forward to working as a team with all of you in order to accomplish an exemplary school year.

Bio Coming Soon!

My teaching philosophy is that having a quality Pre-Kindergarten experience will benefit children by improving their success in school and beyond. I plan developmentally appropriate activities that provide my students opportunities to practice critical and creative thinking. I use stories, songs, poems, and games to teach early literacy and math skills.

I was born in Miami and have lived here all my life. I’ve enjoyed growing up and going to school in South Florida. I attended Florida International University and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelors in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. I went back to F.I.U. to earn a Masters degree in Early Childhood Education in 1996. I love it what I do each day.

Graduated Nova Southeastern University with a B.S. in Education (1992). Began teaching at CORAL TERRACE ELEMENTARY 1999-2000. Enjoys teaching primary age students. My philosophy of education is that given the appropriate learning environment and instruction along with dedication, every child can and will learn.

A teacher is first and foremost a leader, a provider, and a guide to tomorrow’s future. A teacher must be a professional, well-informed individual who promotes a successful future for his/her students, while valuing each student’s culture and personality. We are all accountable for what we do in this world. Students are to learn to be responsible in attending class everyday, pay attention to the teacher, and turn homework in at all times. In order for the students to accomplish these requirements the teacher must motivate them to be disciplined, and also let them know that they will be rewarded for doing a good job.

rebcastro@dadeschools.net

Ms. Zagales received her Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Miami.  She has been teaching at Coral Terrace Elementary since the 1998-1999 school year.  Ms. Zagales loves working with young children.  Her hobbies include going to the beach, reading and football.

azagales@dadeschools.net

Ms. Matanis received her Bachelors degree from Barry University, in Miami, Florida. She has been teaching at Coral Terrace Elementary since the 2004-2005 school year. Ms. Matanis loves working with young children and is very enthusiastic about the academic achievement of her students. Her hobbies include camping and spending special times with her family.

Education is definitely the key to success. It is the key that opens doors to a better tomorrow. Therefore, I strive to give my students a positive and tranquil learning atmosphere in which I am able to reach their specific needs, at the same time that they are able to excel. Let us reach for the stars and make a brighter tomorrow.

calcantara@dadeschools.net

I have been a teacher since 1985.  I attended Florida International University and Nova University.  Reading is my favorite subject to teach.  I enjoy teaching young children and believe that the more children are exposed to cultural and challenging activities, the wider their horizons become.  My hobbies are traveling, photography and taking pleasure in the performing arts.

ckawasaki@dadeschools.net

My teaching Philosophy is that all students are learners who need some one to build their self-confidence and self-esteem by using a combination of strategies and techniques. I believe I am a facilitator to make these students successful participants in the academic environment that is such an important part of their daily life.

alesrodriguez@dadeschools.net

I have a bachelors Degree from St. Thomas University and a Masters Degree in TESOL from Florida International University.  I taught six years (2nd grade) at Leisure City Elementary School, where I was named Teacher of the Year for 2002-2003.

I love teaching first grade because I believe that the students are like flowers.  They need rain and sunshine to bloom.  My philosophy is to give knowledge and guide each student to become respectful and productive citizens.  I see daily how these students bloom with the love and tender care I give each of them.  My hobbies are reading, cooking and spending quality time with my two children.

vfleites@dadeschools.net

Teaching is a privilege. As an educator I work hard to enhance the minds of my students in order to reach their maximum potential academically, socially and emotionally. I feel I need to encourage them to flourish in a safe and dynamic learning environment, where they may be enriched as individuals with their unique talents and abilities. I believe the future of our society depends on the education of its youth. So as a teacher I accept this responsibility with great commitment, dedication and joy in pursuit of excellence every day.

mcerda7@dadeschools.net

"Not everyone is ready for the same thing at the same time, in the same way.”  My favorite subject is reading.  I attended Orangeburg Calhoun and Nova University.  I began teaching in 1987. I’m married and the proud mother of two daughters.  I love reading, surfing the Internet, and vacationing in Carolina.  If I can make a difference contributing to students’ knowledge and helping  shape young minds into the best that they can be, it is a priceless gift.

Bio Coming Soon!

I’ve been teaching at CORAL TERRACE ELEMENTARY since the 1991-1992 school year.  In my class, Reading and Math are my favorite subjects to teach, although I like all subjects and having the variety throughout the day.

My philosophy on education is that I want to make a difference in my students’ life, not only in their education but also in their formation and values as human beings. It is a privilege to be involved in my students’ development and a job I truly enjoy.

tcarmona@dadeschools.net

A well-rounded education is crucial in today's complex, information age. An excellent education should enable individuals to use knowledge as fuel to comprehend society and as a means of evolving into critical thinkers.

The classroom environment should be structured, yet promote student creativity. Along with keeping high expectations and having students take responsibility for their actions, we need to guide and nurture our students with enriching learning experiences to instill a love of learning.

It's rewarding to see students gain confidence in themselves as readers, writers, speakers, scientists, problem solvers, and learners. As educators, we need to provide children with the tools to acquire and apply knowledge to become productive and responsible citizens of a democratic society.

lizamarx@dadeschools.net

My Teaching philosophy is to create a learning environment that encourages creativity, responsibility, organization, and academic growth. I integrate hands-on activities to allow all students to experience success.

My mission is to empower the students develop their maximum potential.  To provide a positive and stimulating learning environment which meets individual needs, fosters active learners, critical thinkers and responsible citizens of a multicultural society in our ever changing interdependent world.

My teaching philosophy is that we as teachers have a duty to ensure that every student that is entrusted to us has all the opportunities to learn what he or she is entitled to. We must be able to accommodate those students whose needs don’t meet the norm; and, must above all treat our students the same way we would want other teachers to treat our own children.

ssouth@dadeschools.net

I received my Bachelors degree in Elementary education in 1985, and my Masters degree in 1995. I began my teaching career in 1986 at Santa Clara Elementary as a second grade teacher. In 1988, I transferred to H.M. Flagler Elementary where I had the opportunity to teach all the grade levels throughout my fifteen years there. I get satisfaction out of watching children grow emotionally and academically, and from knowing that I made a difference in their lives.

I began teaching in the 2004-2005 school year. I have a Bachelors degree from Barry University. I believe every child is capable and entitled to achieving his/her goals, learn to their outmost potential, and to receive a nurturing environment. I have taught Second and Fifth grade but I really enjoy teaching fourth grade. My favorite subjects are Mathematics and Science. My hobbies are skiing and spending quality time with my family and friends.

I received my Bachelors and Masters from F.I.U. I’ve been teaching since the 1996-1997 school year in CORAL TERRACE ELEMENTARY. I enjoy spending time with friends. Favorite subjects are Language Arts and Reading.

Mr. Cabrera has worked with MDCPS since 1995 in various grade levels and subjects. He attended both Nova University and Florida State University. Mr. Cabrera believes that every child can succeed and excel and that teachers are instrumental in this educational process. His favorite subject is Science. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

arcabrera@dadeschools.net

With a tremendous debt of gratitude to my mother, I can proudly and literally say “I was born to be a teacher.”

My mother having been so profoundly impacted by her fourth-grade teacher, her only desire for me during the months of my conception, was to be a teacher. So without me giving it a thought, my vocation was already predestined by her and her influential teacher.

To me, the passion for teaching is sacred. It is an important life mission, because when I teach, I touch the future which is so evident in the moral and ethical standards of my students. They are extraordinary people who have the courage to stand with conviction and integrity in the midst of chaos, uncertainty, and challenging circumstances, which motivate them to be exceptional leaders.

For these reasons and many more, I can truly say with a great deal of pride, that my vocation (teaching) has favored me with many wonderful and rewarding experiences, and hope that it will continue to do so, as I am committed to make a difference in the lives of the students I teach.

My teaching philosophy is to give students the tools that will help and inspire them to realize that learning and applying themselves is a decision they make everyday. I will try to instill in them that education will enrich their daily lives and future. I know our students can achieve what they choose to achieve and become.

tweekley@dadeschools.net

I love teaching! I come from a family of teachers and that coupled with my love for children, is what prompted me to enter this profession. I began my career as a substitute teacher and after earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, I worked as a 2nd and 3rd Grade Special Education Teacher at Bunche Park Elementary. The following year, I came to Coral Terrace and worked as the 2nd Grade TEAM Teacher. Since then, I have taught 4th and 5th Grade Language Arts and Reading. I feel that I have found a home here at Coral Terrace, with all of the wonderful faculty, staff, parents and students who help to bring meaning and joy to my life. I expect a lot from my students, but not more than they are capable of giving. I hope that I can be a positive influence in their lives, help them to be decent citizens, and assist them in fulfilling their dreams.

I began teaching at Coral Terrace in the 2005-2006 school year and I am very excited to be here! I came from South Pointe where I taught for 14 years. I began teaching back in 1987. I received my Bachelor's from Florida International University and my Mastser's degree from Nova Southeastern University. Since I was a little girl I wanted to be a teacher and I love working with children, they make me smile. I look forward to meeting students, staff and parents at this great school.

Mrs. Curcio

After graduating from Barry College in 1977, I began my teaching career with the intent on making a positive impact on my students’ lives. Little did I realize how deeply gratifying my job would be especially in the area of exceptional student education. After earning my Masters degree from the University of Miami, I continue to find deep satisfaction and enjoyment working with my students and hopefully making a difference in their lives.

Mrs. Graham

Born in Oklahoma. Lived all over the United States worked for DCPS since 1984. ESE teacher of Learning Disabilities. Favorite subject is reading. Favorite pastime is reading mysteries. I consider it an honor to be able to help students reach their academic goals.

Mrs. Garcia

As a teacher, I believe that students need to be challenged and encouraged to explore new ideas and discover their personal strengths. Teaching students persistence will help children achieve their long term goals.

Mrs. Rosenkrantz

I received a B.F.A. in sculpture, from Syracuse University, N.Y. a B.S. in secondary education, from F.I.U., Fl. And a M.F.A. in art education, from Boston University, Ma. I believe that the information children acquire and learn, in a comprehensive elementary school art program, will ultimately enrich their lives forever. I love children, art, reading, going to the movies, and watching television.

Mr. Goldberg

In 1983, I came to Coral Terrace as the school’s Media Specialist. My library experience stretches back to 1968 when I worked at Miami Beach Public Library as a library assistant. Since then, I have worked with FSU; Florida Department of Corrections; and Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. I have a Bachelors from F.I.U., a Masters in Library Science from F.S.U. ,and an Educational Specialist Degree in Computer Science from Barry University.

Mr. Trigo

Music has been an important part of my life since my early childhood. At home, I would listen to various musical styles, but was particularly drawn to music from the “Romantic” and  “Impressionist” periods. Every student has individual needs that needs to be addressed. I pursue the daily success of every form of learner in all my classes. I look forward to expanding the musical horizons of not only my students, but myself as well.

Mr. Sutton

I graduated from Tennessee Tech. University. In my spare time I enjoy movies, traveling, and power walking. I have been teaching for since 1970.

gsutton@dadeschools.net

Mr. Fuentes

I graduated from Florida International University. My favorite moments teaching Physical Education are when a student succeeds in a skill or activity for the first time. I have been teaching since the 1988-1989 school year with DCPS. My favorite subject is astronomy and my hobbies include weight-lifting and running, having briefly competed in them a number of years ago.

Mrs. Rivas

I was born in Cuba. I am married. I have two daughters and four grandchildren. I enjoy reading and traveling. I graduated as a teacher in Cuba and when I came to the United States I received a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education at Biscayne College. I have been teaching at CORAL TERRACE ELEMENTARY since 1974.

My philosophy of Education is that when children and teachers have a good rapport and positive attitude toward learning, they will both be successful in their accomplishments.

Mrs. Urrutia

My philosophy of education is that all children should have the same opportunity to learn no matter their culture or background. Through the Spanish curriculum, I make sure their native language, traditions and culture are reinforced and not forgotten. Viva el Español!

Mrs. Churchill

She began her teaching career in New Jersey. After five years, she moved to Florida where she continued working as a classroom teacher. In 1993 she began teaching in CORAL TERRACE ELEMENTARY as an ESOL teacher. She has taught second grade, but is once again teaching ESOL.

Mrs. Esquenazi

This is my first year at Coral Terrace Elementary. I am looking forward to being a part of this wonderful school. My teaching career began ten years ago when I was hired as an ESOL teacher. It was both a challenging and rewarding experience. I love to work with children that are learning the English language. My goal is to create a learning environment that makes my students feel welcomed and eager to learn. I received a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from Florida International University. My hobbies include reading and shopping.

Mrs. Prusner

I began working for MDCPS in 1975 as a Special Education teacher for the Learning Disabled. In 1988, I came to Coral Terrace Elementary to work as the school counselor. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Specific Learning Disabilities from F.I.U., and my Masters in Administration and Supervision. My hobbies include cooking and gardening.

Mrs. Ramos

Bio Coming Soon!

Mrs. Simmons

Attended the University of  Miami, married to Luther, two beautiful daughters,  Krystina: 11 years old and Kaitlyn 2 years old. I have been teaching since 1992. I believe learning should be interesting and life based.

Mrs. Gaviria

Picture Coming Soon!

Mrs. Alejandre

Picture Coming Soon!

Mr. Noyse

Mr. Caraballo

Click here to learn more about Mr. Caraballo and the C.I.S. program.

Officer Amador

Mrs. Paredes

Mrs. Martinez

Mrs. Luciani

Mrs. Abreu

Mrs. Pena

Mrs. Garmendia

Mrs. Roque

Mrs. Feria

Scroll up and read Mrs. Feria's bio up above in the 4th Grade Section.

Mrs. Garmendia

Mrs. Diaz-Matos

Mr. Quintero

Our Microsystems Technician keeps our school computers running smoothly. Mr. Quintero is also a liaison between district technology procedures and developments and our staff.

Mrs. Mosley

Mr. Figueroa

Mrs. Bueno

Mr. Gonzalez

Mrs. Espinosa

Mrs. Valdes

Mr. Rivera