Gables re-invented

BY MANUEL ESPINOZA, CONTENT EDITOR

AS NEW STUDENTS AT CORAL Gables Senior High get used to entering the big red gates at 7:15 a.m., the school faces a rise of applications from other students who wish to do the same. From high school transfers to prospective Cavaliers in middle school, ables had to open a waitlist for the first time in years.

“A lot of my family members attended here years ago, so I wanted to do the same,” junior Joshua Estevez said.

Several academic and non-academic achievements were made in recent years. As per the Coral Gables Community Foundation, the class of 2023 had over 15 recipients of scholarships ranging from $500 to $12,000. Furthermore, Gables was deemed an “A” school last year by the Florida Department of Education.

Nearly 35 sports and over 30 clubs are available in different levels for students to participate in through the duration of the school year. These activities define the large student-run environment at Gables. The six official academies relate to different fields such as law, communication arts, hospitality, business, design and the arts, which allow for different career pathways. Additionally, Gables has two magnet programs: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and the National Academy of Finance.

Recently, the U.S. News World Report ranked Coral Gables Senior High School first among all other comprehensive high schools in the district.

“This increased demand makes me feel grateful that I have a spot here,” senior Isabella Vega said.

In 2020, incoming principal Tony Ullivarri, has helped the school improve through renovations during the pandemic. Since then, Ullivarri has dedicated his time toward reinventing Gables’ image. The updated testing policy and large-scale renovations, like new air conditioning, are just a part of the work he has done to improve the school. Attending basketball games and participating in video challenges, Ullivarri demonstrates presence beyond the office.

“Sitting in my office is not the norm for me. I want to be out and about. I want to talk to the students. I want to know what the environment is looking like at our school. Being personable and approachable is important to me,” principal Tony Ullivarri said.

The current upperclassmen, most of whom have seen the growth and improvements of this school, will also notice that new students in their grade have transferred to Gables. For various reasons, student interest in this school has increased on many fronts.