On Tuesday August 20, all of the students of Mater Gardens Academy gathered together to celebrate the unveiling of a new street sign in honor of the school's mascot. Principal Lourdes Isla along with Carlos Fleites representing the Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners unveiled the change from N.W. 178 Lane to Stingray Way.
The proposal for the street name change came last school year and was announced to students for their vote on a new name. Stingray Way was chosen.
The unveiling ceremony began with speeches made by Isla and National Junior Honor Society president Alyssa Castro.
"With Mater Gardens pride we will inspire students, maintain a quality educational program and provide a positive and caring school environment that will foster individual excellence and lifelong learning for our students," said Castro.
The street sign, covered with a drape featuring the words "Mater Gardens", was pulled for the grand reveal following the speeches. The students, staff and faculty erupted into cheers and applause.
School counselor Frank Castillo said the new street name "gives a sense of pride and ownership to our students."
Mater Gardens Academy is a K-8 learning center located at 9010 N.W. Stingray Way (formerly 178 Lane). For more information, call 305-512-9775 or visit http://matergardens.com.