Art teacher Irene Albalat was the creative leader for the mural that now covers the entrance of Miami Lakes Middle School, a project commemorating the town of Miami Lakes' 50th anniversary. Following on the heels of the mural's reveal, Albalat was named Miami Lakes Middle Schools' Teacher of the Year for 2013-2014.
Originally born in Alquizar, Cuba, Albalat settled in Miami with her family at the tender age of 6. She attended Mae M. Walters Elementary, Henry H. Filer Middle School, and Miami Springs Senior High all the while earning awards and recognition for her work in visual arts. After graduating Florida International University with a bachelor's and master's degree in Art Education she began teaching.
Albalat's first experience with educating children came at the age of 16 while working at a daycare center. She was fortunate enough to showcase her talent through various works of art in the day care center and community, and through the burgeoning talent of the children she taught.
Beginning in 2003, Abalat worked at Golden Glades Elementary where she was chosen as Rookie Teacher of the Year that same year. In 2004, she taught at Coral Gables Elementary School where she began a successful art program. In 2007 Albalat made the transition into middle school at Miami Lakes Middle School and hasn't looked back since.
"I am eager to continue to be a part of Miami Lakes Middle School and its community," said Albalat.
In her 10 years of teaching Albalat has also found time to be a Union Steward at Coral Gables Elementary and sit on the ESSAC Committee for Miami Lakes Middle School. Additionally she is a United Way liaison. She has also had her work and her students' work shown in galleries and community events.
Life outside of school still has its children for Albalat, her sons Brandon and Jaden whom she enjoys time with along with her husband, David, on family outings.
"As a professional artist, it's just about expressing myself – my feelings, my thoughts and my emotions," said Albalat. "I want to be able to share this with the world, share what I see through my eyes, on canvas for all too hopefully enjoy."