The brand new school board

United by common goals and interests, three new members have joined the Miami-Dade County Public School Board

BY ADRIAN PEREZ, STAFF WRITER

LAST FALL, THE MIAMI-DADE County School Board introduced three new members: Roberto Alonso, Monica Colucci and Daniel Espino. Making up one-third of the board, the new leaders of the MDC school system aim to support parental rights in schools and emphasize a more transparent curriculum.

Roberto Alonso won the primary election for the representative of District 4, the northeastern area of Miami-Dade, on Aug. 23, 2022. He assumed office on Nov. 28, 2022, ending Perla Tabares Hantman’s 26-year run on the board. Born and raised in Florida, Alonso attended Miami-Dade College and Florida International University, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration.

Making good use of his degree, Alonso has developed education software by co-founding Hero K-12 and developing SchoolMint, a platform that manages and increases student enrollment. When interviewed by Grant Miller from Community News Network, Alonso stated his aims to bring parents’ voices to the board, pay teachers adequately and incorporate technology into education.

“I expect a different approach to public schools and the manner in which they are regulated. That may entail a boost in teacher salary and appreciation as well as student safety,” sophomore Andres Rodriguez said.

Monica Colucci, another winner of the August primaries, replaced Marta Perez, a board member since 1998. With a passion for bringing out students’ potential, Colucci has taught in MDCPS for 26 years, as stated by the Miami-Dade Public School System’s website.

During her career, she has contributed to her community by mentoring teachers, providing parent workshops and writing curriculum for the University of Miami.

DID YOU KNOW?

Source: Miami-Dade County Public Schools

“Because of her experience, I think that she might be more aware of the realities of what schools are really like for teachers, administrators and students,” Assistant Principal Jocelyn Figueroa said.

Outside the classroom, Colucci has strong ties with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, having served in the Executive Office and as Special Assistant to the Lieutenant Governor. According to WLRN, she aims to protect students’ innocence and believes religion should be emphasized in education. She also prioritizes safety and raising teacher salaries.

Unlike his colleagues, Daniel Espino was directly appointed by DeSantis on Nov. 21, 2022, taking the seat held by Christi Fraga. With a Juris Doctor, a professional law degree, from Nova Southeastern University, Espino has an extensive background in law. Based on information from Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin + Tapanes Law Firm, he has served as the city attorney of Doral, Miami Springs and North Miami Beach and is the Chairman