Rafaela Cruz and Jeannette Gallup have been named Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year, respectively, at Barbara Goleman Senior High School.
Cruz. an Honors Chemistry and Physical Science teacher, has 27 years of experience in teaching beginning with her role as a teaching assistant at Rutgers University where she earned her BSN in nursing, M.S. in zoology, and Ph.D. in Biochemistry.
Having always been interested in science and harboring a love for teaching since childhood, the New Jersey native migrated south and began working within the Miami-Dade County Public School system where she taught courses in biology, anatomy and physiology, earth science, research and zoology. With a long history in education both as a student and teacher, Cruz suggests to parents looking to improve their children’s learning and education to participate and be involved.
In addition to her work in the classroom, she is a part of the ESAAC Committee, Black History Committee, Science Club, Science National Honor Society, Blood Drive Coordinator and she tutors after school. Outside of school Cruz is a nurse, collects items for Camillus House, and spends time with her husband and six grandchildren.
Nominated once before as Teacher of the Year at a middle school, Cruz once again won over the nominating committee for her win this school year.
“It was an honor to be nominated and be congratulated by the students and faculty,” said Cruz. “I credit my success to the students, past and present, and my experience through the educational system.”
Galup. the drama teacher at Barbara Goleman, completed her bachelor’s degree in Theatre at Florida International University and while in college she discovered she enjoyed directing, which is similar to teaching, she noted.
Galup first came to appreciate the theatre at age 15, the same age as many of the students she leads in productions. As a former alumna of Goleman, class of 2002, Galup has come full circle, teaching where she once learned and eager to instill a passion for theatre in students. She enjoys the ability to encourage students to express themselves.
“The theatre scene in Miami is growing,” said Galup. “What better way to keep it growing than teaching and inspiring the next generations of artists?”
Galup, staying true to inspiring the next generation, led her students to their first competition and brought home a first place win. Apart from her time guiding students for self expression, Galup runs the summer acting camp at Main Street Players on Main Street and spends time with her husband and daughter. She explores Miami during her downtime including visiting art shows, museums, farms, plays and the beach.