Music that Describes Miriam
Miriam Rodriguez was nominated by a colleague, Maria Teresa Pedroche.
Ms. Rodriguez is an exceptional educator, administrator, and leader who has dedicated 22 years of her professional life to transforming the lives of students, families, and educators. Throughout her distinguished career, Ms. Rodriguez has consistently demonstrated a proven ability to make a meaningful, lasting difference in students' lives. Her leadership has directly contributed to improved academic outcomes, strengthened school culture, and renewed hope for countless students and families. Many students' futures have been changed for the better because of her unwavering commitment, vision, and heart for service.
Ms. Rodriguez has an extraordinary talent for creating a positive, nurturing, and inclusive school atmosphere. Whether serving as a principal, assistant principal, or classroom teacher, she leads with empathy, clarity, and high expectations. Her campuses are known for strong relationships, trust, collaboration, and a culture where students and staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Her leadership within both her school communities and district is exemplary.
As an administrator in the Dallas Independent School District and the Mesquite Independent School District, Ms. Rodriguez has led campus transformation efforts resulting in significant growth across key areas, including discipline, instructional leadership, communication, talent development, and teacher support. Under her leadership, campuses have demonstrated measurable improvements in climate surveys and academic performance, including a rise from a "C" rating to an anticipated "B" rating within a single school year.
Ms. Rodriguez's record of excellent professional performance is extensive and well-documented. She has successfully overseen large campuses, led instructional initiatives, managed complex testing programs, evaluated and mentored teachers, and guided leadership teams through data-driven decision-making processes. She is equally effective in strategic planning and in the day-to-day work of supporting students, staff, and families.
Beyond results and metrics, what truly sets Ms. Rodriguez apart is her commitment to producing a nurturing atmosphere rooted in high moral and ethical standards. She leads with integrity, compassion, and authenticity. She is a trusted mentor to teachers, a steadfast advocate for students, and a respected partner to parents and community stakeholders. Her dedication to equity, bilingual education, and serving diverse populations reflects her deep belief that every child deserves access to opportunity and excellence.
Ms. Rodriguez's academic background further strengthens her leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from The University of Texas at Austin, as well as a Master of Education in Leadership and Policy and a Master of Bilingual Education with a Talented and Gifted concentration from Southern Methodist University. This unique combination of analytical skill, linguistic fluency, and educational expertise allows her to lead with both precision and heart. She gives selflessly to the communities she serves, mentors educators with purpose, and inspires students to see what is possible for their lives. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom or campus; it lives on in the students, teachers, and families whose lives she has touched over the past 22 years.
Principal Rodríguez is a true advocate for students, families, and teachers. Her passion for bilingual education shines through in everything she does. She understands the power of language and culture in shaping confident learners, and she works tirelessly to ensure that bilingual students feel seen, valued, and supported.
She leads with heart, high expectations, and a deep belief in the potential of every child. Whether she is supporting teachers, connecting with families, or championing opportunities for multilingual learners, Principal Rodriguez consistently puts students first.
Excelente Directora Ms Rodriguez este es el
Primer año de mis hijos ahi 1ero y 3er grado
Tuve una queja acerca de mi niño y de inmediato me contacto para platicar ña situacion y solucionarlo
Me gusto mucho su compromiso hacia los estudiantes que son su prioridad 10 de 10 para Ms Rodriguez
My mom being nominated for a LifeChanger Award means so much to me. I have always known how amazing she is, but seeing other people recognize it makes me so proud.
She is one of the hardest workers I know. No matter what is going on, she shows up and gives her best every single day. She doesn’t give up when things get hard. She keeps going, and that has taught me the importance of working hard and staying strong.
She is also very brave. She faces challenges with courage and never lets fear stop her. Watching her handle difficult situations with strength inspires me to do the same in my own life.
Most of all, she is an incredible role model. She is kind, caring, and always willing to help others. I look up to her and hope to be like her someday.
Ms. Rodriguez is truly the best principal Felix Botello School could have. She is someone who dedicates time to her vocation and clearly enjoys it. She is as kind as a student's mother. I can say that she is a great principal and person; she always has a smile to share
Confieso que no veia positivos los cambios que tomo al iniciar en Félix Botello pero con el paso de los dias me di cuenta que sabe lo que hace, tiene una vision clara de las decisiones que toma, los resultados son favorables para padres y estudiantes que es lo mas importante.
When I was new at the campus where Miriam was an assistant principal, she made me feel beyond welcome. Her smile and energy was infectious. It made me want to do and be more for our students. Miriam you are a light!
I was lucky enough to work with Miriam for a few years. I have watched her blossom from testing coordinator, to assistant principal, to now principal of her own school. She leads with kindness and compassion. You can always count on her if you need anything. She does what is best for kids and I can’t think of anyone else deserving of this honor other than her. I was blessed to be able to work with her!!
Principal Rodriquez is amazing. I’ve never seen a principal lead an organisation with so much grace. She deserves ALL the recognition for a job well done!
Ms. Rodriguez is an amazing principal who truly cares about her students, staff, and families. She is always welcoming, listens with kindness, and makes everyone feel valued. Her leadership creates a positive, safe, and supportive environment where children can grow and succeed.
I have the honor to be Miriam’s father. Since elementary school to gradúate schools she always made us proud, working hard, demanding a lot from herself, building lifetime relationships with teachers and classmates.
Throughout the years i have been invited to volunteer at her school campus, sometimes helping with set ups for carnivals and fairs, others judging Science Fairs, and other times to talk about my career as an Electrical Engineer , and have always enjoyed the enthusiastic and respectful interaction of the students and staff with Miriam.
The atmosphere she is able to create,no doubt, is a response to her genuine desire to help her students and staff to reach their full potential.
My daughter Miriam Rodriguez Jimenez deserves the Life Changer award for the many lives she has (and continues to) touched.
Pues yo estaría de acuerdo y la apollaria en lo k se pueda
I love that she's so committed to her job and bringing joy to our kids, she's always going above and beyond to get in the spirit and wearing custom and making everyone feel that their in a safe place!
The Principal Miriam Rodríguez is an excellent person and a wonderful human being who is truly interested in the well-being of all her students. She really has vocation and empathy—she’s kind and respectful.
Exelente persona y profesora tuve el placer de conocerla a ella y su familia cuando compartimos en la escuela Victor Hexter Elementary el segundo grado de mi pequeño .Muchas gracias por estar presente en nuestras vidas.
Excelente directora siempre pendiente de todos los alumnos y dando un buen apoyo a los padres se merece el
Reconocimiento siempre está dando positividad y alegría muy amable es la directora
Ms Rodriguez is finishing her first year at our school and the impact she has had is remarkable. Ms Rodriguez is everywhere all the time. From directing traffic to the front desk, us parents have a direct line to her. Her smile is welcoming and when it comes down to the important stuff, the communication is clear and direct. The way she authentically engages daily makes me wonder how anyone could have that much endurance. She never tires. When a new principal places you with your two kids by name and tells you something about them in casual conversation at a band performance, then you know she is extraordinary. That’s the definition of a hero to me. It’s not the big loud public gestures. It’s being kind and investing in people in the day to day grind. She cares and it shows.
Ms. Rodriguez is a great person/principal. She’s always there to help you in anything. I honestly love her effort & dedication she gives.
La directora. Miriam Rodriguez es muy buena a sabido apoyarnos en todas nuestras dudas y problemas no cabe duda que nuestros hijos están en buenas manos con eya
Ms. Rodriguez is an excellent example of a great educator and leader in Dallas ISD. She made you feel as you were heard when you brought up concerns and would always check back in to see how the situation had progressed. She made an effort to know all the kids names and who the parents belonged to. The best was that she took time out of her weekends and would come to the robotics competitions to cheer on our teams. Even though she has left Sanger to become the principal at Botello, she still stays in contact checking in on how my kids are doing, sending words of encouragement for them and for me as a mom of a senior. All who have gotten to know her and work with her have been blessed. I am grateful that she has had a hand in my kids education through DISD.
We love that principal Rodriguez and her staff members get involved with student and parents since the very beginning of the day! They take care of our students organizing traffic and maintaining order. When I go drop off my daughter principal Rodriguez is there wearing a costume to make it fun for everyone!
The school principal Miriam Rodriguez is very kind and fun, always attentive to the needs of us parents and willing to help us at all times. Thank you so much for your support, school principal!
A principal may not have superpowers, but they have the power to inspire, guide, and protect hundreds of students every day. Our principal works tirelessly to make sure our school a safe and positive place to learn. They listen when we have problems, encourage us when we feel discouraged, and celebrate our achievements with pride.
Just like a superhero, our principal stands strong during challenges and helps others overcome difficulties. They teach us important values like respect, responsibility, and kindness. Their leadership shapes not only our education but also our future.
Not all superheroes wear capes…some lead schools, guide students, and change lives every single day. And for that, our principal is a true hero.
Como líder una persona esepcional muy atenta excelente persona
Principal Rodriguez is an outstanding education leader and servant to her students, staff and community. We are so fortunate to have her at DISD.
I know firsthand that Miriam is always there when you reach out, offering thoughtful advice, practical help, and sincere encouragement. In our campus, she took the time to learn everyone’s name, arrived early, and set clear expectations that showed how much she cares about students and our school community. She made time for parents, students, and staff, truly listening and working toward positive solutions. She cares deeply about kids, public education, and the community, and her dedication shines through every day. This recognition is so well deserved!!!
Miriam is a great educator who does this work for ALL students.
There is no one I know (or have ever known) as deserving of this honor as Miriam. As evidenced by the comments here, she is not only an exceptional educator and leader, but an outstanding mother, daughter, community member, neighbor and friend. She has spent a lifetime passionately advocating for children, inspiring those around her with her intelligence, grace, persistence, humility, compassion and wit. Simply said, there is NO ONE like her. Miriam is a treasure!
Miriam is an exceptional leader…
Ms. Rodriguez is a true leader, a compassionate listener, and an unwavering advocate for children had a remarkable ability to make every child feel seen, heard, and valued. Her door was always open. She was a helping hand when someone needed support, a listening ear when someone needed comfort, and a strong voice when someone needed an advocate.
I had the privilege of working alongside Miriam for just one year, but in that short time, her passion and dedication shone so brightly and left a lasting impact on me as a new teacher.
Even from afar, I’ve continued to follow her journey with admiration — celebrating her accomplishments, her commitment to growth, and her ever-expanding reach in changing lives. I feel proud to know her and to witness the way she leads forward with heart, integrity, and purpose.
Miriam continues to be a guiding compass for educators and students alike — both those who have worked beside her in the past and those fortunate enough to serve under her leadership today.
Miriam is someone I was lucky to work with back in our teacher days and consider her a dear friend and role model since. Dallas is lucky to have such a talent guiding our youth.
Miriam is a life changer, motivator, and true hero in education. Over the years she has face both trials and triumphs with the true heart of a leader. Using each to better the cause and serve those who deserve it most. This is a well deserved honor. Congratulations!
I met Miriam when she was a teacher, and over time our relationship grew into something much deeper — a true friendship that became like family. It has been such a joy to watch her grow into an inspiring leader while continuing to be an incredible, devoted mother. She carries both roles with grace, strength, and heart. Miriam is truly a gift to everyone who has the privilege of knowing her.
I had the unique experience of being a neighbor of Miriam’s. She exemplifies what a true neighbor is. I can count on her if I need anything and she helps to give me a peace of mind in my home living in a big city. As a mom of children who kids who attended DISD, I know Miriam has the students best interest at heart. She’s a hard worker and a go getter! As a teacher myself, I imagine she’s a fantastic head of school.
Ms. Rodriguez is an amazing mom and an amazing advocate for students. I’ve known her since high school, and she’s always been a responsible, dependable friend. As a fellow educator and administrator, I’m super proud of the difference she’s made in the lives of so many. The best is yet to come for Ms. Rodriguez!
I have had the extreme privilege of spending all 17 years of my life with this amazing and inspiring woman, Miriam Rodriguez. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better mother or role model. No one works harder than her and the only thing she loves as much as her family are her students. It’s because she believes and knows that the people in her school building are her family as well. It’s just her first year, but I know she can and will exceed all expectations and set a new precedent for excellence at Botello!
Miriam is the best!! She is the hardest working person that I know and she loves ALL of her students! She and I have been best friends for over 30 years when we met as potluck roommates at The University of Texas in Austin. She is like an aunt to my kids and vice versa. I’m so proud of her!
Miriam is an exceptional leader who bridges the gap between prioritizing student outcomes and nurturing teachers as professionals. It has been a pleasure to watch her progress, impacting lives through high expectations. She is an exemplar of integrity and clarity even in moments of crisis and transition. Through her personal background and her professional experiences, Miriam is exactly the kind of school and systems leader we need in these difficult times.
I have known Miriam since right before entering high school. Afterwards, we were lucky enough to end up at the same university. We then got to see each other’s families grow. She encouraged me to change my career to education, a choice we both made and never looked back. Many years later I had the opportunity to have her as my coworker then as my vice principal. I have had the privilege to see her at various stages in her life. Regardless of how hard life has gotten she has always been resilient and strong. She is always there for her family, her friends, her students and their families. She is someone anyone can count on. I am very blessed to have her as a friend.
I had the pleasure of having Ms. Miriam Rodriguez as my assistant principal several years ago. One of the things that stood out to me about her was the notes that she would leave behind after coming into my classroom for an observation. She would include pieces of chocolate alongside her note. She would then take the time to provide me face to face feedback to help me understand the notes she left behind. Ms. Rodriguez was intentional then and continues to be intentional now.
Ms Rodriguez took the time to get to know all her students and their parents. We really appreciated her and her personal attention to our children.
On very rare occasions, we have the opportunity to find people capable of inspiring a community to bring out the best in it through example, humanity, and sacrifice. Miriam is definitely one of these inspiring people. She was able to change her environment through hard work and professionalism at the school where she served as assistant principal and where I worked as a teacher. Miriam always made us know that we were the best chance our children had to change their future. She meet with teachers and parents of children who were not meeting academic and/or disciplinary goals to understand the situation that was hindering the child's growth, offering solutions for their academic and personal growth. She helps teachers who have low or average performance become great teachers through motivation, advanced educational strategies, and support from the school administration. Miriam is visionary, empathetic, approachable, resilient, decisive and supportive. She not only made an impact on students, she made an impact on me too!
As a parent and PTA Board member at Alex Sanger, I had the pleasure of working closely with Ms. Rodriguez. She brought incredible positive energy and enthusiasm to our school community. Ms. Rodriguez consistently shared thoughtful, innovative ideas, and thanks to her leadership, several new programs were implemented—many of which continue to benefit Sanger teachers and families today. Her impact on our school has been lasting and meaningful.
I had the good fortune of being a parent of a student at Hexter Elementary and had the chance to work with and see the impact that Ms. Rodriguez was working towards in action. She always kept the student ata the forefront of her work, she led with grace and inclusion, and she was an excellent communicator. She and school leadership in general made themselves accessible at all times and we were so appreciative of her always finding ways to try and improve the student and academic experience. I am thrilled that she has been nominated for this award and hope she has the good fortune of winning.
Mrs. Rodriguez is truly unique in her role as a leader. I was fortunate to meet her as a parent at the school where my daughters studied, and I was always amazed by the kindness, passion, and love she showed every day. Mrs. Rodriguez is a woman who genuinely loves what she does, and it is a blessing to see the joy and emotion with which my daughter greeted her. That reaction reflects the care and love my daughter received from Mrs. Rodriguez.
Beyond this, she demonstrated her strong commitment to the community by sharing the many benefits offered by Dallas ISD. She gave me the opportunity to be part of a magnificent team at the school where she served as assistant principal, trusting in me and believing in my potential. Mrs. Rodriguez deserves to win this award because I am confident she has great plans and an even greater heart. She achieves what she sets out to do, and she consistently shares opportunities and seeks benefits for everyone around her.
I have the privilege of having a “front row seat” in Miriam’s life, education, and career.
She graduated with a civil engineering degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a field that promised to be very profitable. However, she decided to pursue two other degrees in education to follow her passion for education and for helping others reach their full potential..
While attending school during the day, Miriam volunteered her evenings and weekends at a local public library, teaching English as a second language to adults.
During her 22 years in education, I have witnessed the many relationships she has created with her students and their families. She often gets invited to (and attends) ballet folklóricos, art exhibits, soccer and football games in support of her current and former students, and she also very proudly attends graduations.
Mrs. Rodriguez makes a point to get to know not only her students but their families as well. She becomes part of the community she serves by utilizing and supporting small businesses and attending community events. She is known for keeping in touch with former students and their families and on several occasions has taken them on tours of local universities, breaking barriers particularly for those that are first-generation college-bound. Her own kids often comment that it is rare when they go out and no one comes to greet Mrs. Rodriguez, “You will think Mami taught half of the Dallas population,” jokingly said Julian, her 17-year-old son.
Mrs. Rodriguez has mentored younger colleagues and has recruited many to the education field.
No doubt my daughter Miriam Rodriguez Jimenez is a “life changer” for many; however, I can say that in my case, she is also a “life saver.” Five years ago, on the first of July 2021, Miriam became a “living organ donor” and saved my life. I was facing Stage 4 (end of life) cirrhosis of the liver with an estimated 3-6 months survival without a liver transplant. The 12-hour-long surgery was risky but successful.
Miriam Rodriguez, a "life changer" for many and a "life saver" for me.
So proud to see Miriam nominated as a LifeChanger. She is truly a trailblazer and a servant leader who brings passion, cultural humility, advocacy, compassion, and strong community connections to public education. Miriam transforms campus culture and climate by valuing her teachers, loving her students, and engaging the entire community. She leads with data-driven best practices while honoring the human side of education, using innovative and inclusive approaches that ensure every voice is seen and heard. She is humble, inspiring, and a true game-changer for everyone around her.
I can’t think of anyone more deserving of a Life Changer of the Year award than Miriam Rodriguez. Her leadership went far beyond policies and procedures—she truly changed lives by believing in people and holding them to their best. I’m grateful to have worked with an administrator who led with heart, fairness, and purpose every single day. Working under her leadership was a privilege, and her impact continues to stay with me.
Miriam Rodriguez embodies the virtues of justice, fortitude, and temperance.
The first time I co-taught was with her. We were the School’s Dream Team. I have not met a teacher that cares so much about our students beyond academics. She brought the best out of them. Miriam believes deeply in equality, recognizing the inherent worth of every kid in the little things and maintaining a macro thinking at the same time. Let me give you two examples.
While playing dodgeball with our 5th graders I teased the boys saying “Stop throwing the ball like a girl!”. Suddenly I see Mrs. Rodriguez walked firmly towards me saying “What do you mean by throwing like a girl?... Please don’t say that again!”. Driving home I realized how many times I made similar comments with my own sons in front of my daughter, unconsciously belittling her. I will never forget Miriam’s fraternal correction. Because people like Miriam, that changed my paradigms, I became a better teacher and a better father.
Another example was how Miriam dealt with the low self-steam of many of our Hispanic and African American students. Part of it was not being proud of their roots, their acculturation difficulties, negative stereotypes, and so on. Miriam quietly but with steady goals began to organize The Hispanic Heritage and Black History Month with profound readings, talent shows, games, food, art, and parental involvement.
Later Mrs. Rodríguez was my assistant principal at Cannaday Elementary.
Again, from her new administrative position she always prioritized students’ needs, well-being in all her actions.
There were times I witnessed Rodríguez experiencing immense pressure. Imagine a single mother with literally two full time jobs, teaching disadvantaged students, and donating an organ and she never stopped smiling. Time after time she stoically succeeded.
"I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love."
Mother Teresa
Miriam is a true Life Changer in every sense of the word. Her years in education reflect not just dedication and hard work, but deep loyalty to doing what’s right for students, colleagues, and the work itself. She taught me the importance of being authentically yourself, standing your ground, and leading with integrity. She has impacted more lives than she’ll ever fully realize, and this award couldn’t be more deserved.
Ms. Rodriguez is one of the hardest working educators that is committed to ensuring that all students succeed. Her student-centered leadership has a positive impact across her campus and in her community. Ms. Rodriguez’s positive impact is evident as she works tirelessly to coordinate all stakeholders towards their contributions to her students’ success. Miriam Rodriguez is a world changer and an excellent candidate for this recognition.
Miriam was a deeply dedicated and compassionate assistant principal. She consistently prioritized meetings with parents, students, and teachers. She demonstrated exceptional skill in listening and considering all perspectives to identify effective solutions. Her commitment extended to being a visible presence at student activities, such as weekend robotics competitions, which significantly impacted the students. She was a valuable addition to our campus
Miriam was a deeply dedicated and compassionate assistant principal. She consistently prioritized meetings with parents, students, and teachers. She demonstrated exceptional skill in listening and considering all perspectives to identify effective solutions. Her commitment extended to being a visible presence at student activities, such as weekend robotics competitions, which significantly impacted the students. She was a valuable addition to our campus.
What a wonderful recognition for such an enthusiastic and caring educator! This award really recognizes Miriam for her kindness and passion for her students! So amazed of this well deserved life changer!
I have known Miriam since our freshman year at UT Austin, and even then, her tenacity, compassion, and leadership skills stood out. She is an educational leader who has touched countless lives over 22 years. Miriam leads with her whole heart—she doesn’t just change schools, she changes lives, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Miriam is an example of dedication, hard work and improvement in her path in teaching. She is a great example and support for her colleagues. Miriam is always looking for the best techniques and methods so that her students can develop their skills to the fullest.
Miriam is an extraordinary leader, human being, teacher, co- worker. I worked with her for 4 years, and I learned alot from her, her pasion for her career , her love to the students and community, her care for her staff and her courage. I witnessed how she helped parents and students at Cannaday Elementary and how much she was loved by families, students and staff.
She was the kind of assistant principal every teacher hopes to work with. Her support went far beyond her role—she was always there with guidance for lessons, help with behavior, and genuine words of encouragement when they were needed most. No matter the situation, she made herself available, showing up with grace, dedication, and care. One moment that speaks volumes about her character was when she didn’t hesitate to come in and open the school when help was needed. Her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support left a lasting impact. She is truly a remarkable person, and the world of education would be better with more leaders like her.
Miriam is a true life changer. Her kindness, dedication, and unwavering belief in others has had a lasting impact on so many people. She consistently goes above and beyond, not because she has to, but because she genuinely cares. Miriam makes people feel supported, seen, and capable of more than they thought possible. What sets Miriam apart is her ability to listen, encourage, advocate, and show up. The positive difference she makes every day is profound, and their influence will be felt long after any single moment or interaction.
Miriam,
Congratulations for receiving this nomination as a Life Changer of the Year. Your dedication to your students and community is evident in your first year as principal. You seek to make students’ education equitable and to prepare them for higher education, just as you do for your own children. I’m certain you will positively impact many lives now and for years to come.
As a fellow principal, I am grateful for the opportunity to support Miriam Rodriguez and celebrate her leadership. Miriam leads with a genuine heart for people and a deep love for her work. Her care for students, staff, and families is felt the moment you step onto one of her campuses, and it is reflected in the strong relationships and positive culture she intentionally builds.
What I admire most about Miriam is her passion for continuous growth. She is reflective, open, and always looking for ways to improve in service of others. She sets high expectations while leading with kindness and empathy, creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed.
Miriam’s leadership leaves a lasting impact. She is a trusted colleague, a thoughtful leader, and a true advocate for students and educators. Our schools are better because of her heart, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Ms. Rodriguez was incredibly supportive and a great leader during her time at Sanger. She truly cared about our community and even helped bring Brighter Bites to our campus, making a lasting impact on our families.
Miriam Rodriguez is someone I can proudly say is deserving of this reward, her passion is the children and it is evidently visible. Her dedication to our youth is admirable and the connection she has created with not only the staff, the students but more importantly the community and parents is authentic and pure. The way she is open to any communication and works collaboratively with such an ease is a gift only individuals with a genuine passion for their craft can exhibit day in and day out with no complaints. I am honored to have met her, worked beside her and have her in my childrens lives as she is an important pillar in their life as their principal. She goes to the extent of getting to know every child and their family in depth and by name independently and that speaks volumes not only of her character but also of her morals. I would love to see her awarded this as I know she will put it to good use and to the enrichment of the people.
Ms. Rodriguez helped my son when he was going through a tough time and she helped him get back on a straight path. She was very supportive and understanding! She still checks on him to she how he’s doing in school and everything! I truly appreciate her for everything she has done and she’s very deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year award!
Ms. Rodríguez es una persona muy amable siempre te saluda y te recibe con una sonrisa muy atenta, siempre está disponible para ayudarte, estoy muy contenta de que esté de directora.
I am excited to see Miriam nominated for the Life changer award. I can't think of anyone more deserving. I had the honor of working with Miriam as my assistant principal for four years. During that time, she was always striving to make our school a community where students, families, and staff felt safe, valued, and where each person mattered.
Miriam lead several small group book studies ; one in particular concentrated on how each of us have different experiences dealing with the biases of race. Our school had a very diverse racial mix of students and Miriam, through the book study, helped us to each look deep within ourselves and face our own prejudice and how to learn and grow to better understand our students who are different from ourselves. This had a powerful impact on me and how I moved forward taking care our students as the school nurse.
It is said that one person can cause meaningful change and Miriam Rodriguez certainly did that for me and for the staff, students and families at Cannaday Elementary. I am definitely a better nurse, colleague, and community member having worked with and learned from her. I cannot think of an educator who is more representative or deserving of this award!
When you met a person through formal students and words by a community, you know that Ms. Rodriguez is the real deal. She is 100% committed to her mission of creating a supportive and welcoming learning environment for all students and teachers. She leads with passion and dedication.
Ms. Rodriguez is an extraordinary educator whose impact on my life cannot be overstated. When I was in her fourth-grade class, I struggled deeply with mathematics, a subject that had always been a personal challenge. While my difficulties had gone unnoticed in previous years, Ms. Rodriguez’s keen observational skills and genuine investment in her students allowed her to see that I wasn't just 'struggling'—I was dealing with an undiagnosed barrier.
Her persistence in getting me tested led to an ADHD diagnosis, a moment that fundamentally changed my life. With her support, I finally received the tools and treatment I needed to succeed. Her ability to engage a classroom is unparalleled; her teaching style made complex concepts like division accessible, and her passion for literature turned a student who was indifferent toward school into one who was eager to learn.
Her influence did not end in the fourth grade. Ms. Rodriguez has remained a dedicated mentor to me for years, even assisting me in securing my first professional role within the Mesquite school district. Inspired by her example, I rediscovered my childhood dream of becoming a teacher. I am proud to share that I earned my Associate’s Degree in Teaching in May 2025 and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree.
My goal is to emulate Ms. Rodriguez by becoming the kind of teacher who advocates for the overlooked and provides a voice for students who haven't yet found their own. She is more than a teacher; she is a life-changing mentor who deserves this award for her unwavering commitment to student success.
I've known Ms. Rodriguez for many years. I have three children, and she taught two of them; the oldest is now 25 and the girl is 23. She has helped our family a lot, both as a teacher and like a mother, because she cares deeply about the education of all her students. My son was very fond of her as a teacher; she taught him in fifth grade, and she also taught my daughter in some summer classes before she started third grade. My daughter had some issues, but we didn't know what they were. I thought she wasn't learning because she wasn't trying hard enough, but when she entered Ms. Rodriguez's summer class, in that very first week, Ms. Rodriguez contacted me and my husband and said that she had noticed something wasn't right with our daughter and wanted our permission to examine her more thoroughly as a student. Ms. Rodriguez has a lot of empathy for all her students; she has a special way of talking and explaining things so that they can learn. My daughter was diagnosed with ADHD; nobody else had noticed this problem in her. They thought she wasn't paying attention, but they didn't know why. When we met Ms. Rodriguez, I had already known her for some time and I liked how she taught her class, and I was always helping out in her classroom. I was always involved in my children's school. So when it was my daughter's turn, and then later, when my daughter started third grade, Ms. Rodriguez told the school principal to give my daughter extra help, like a counselor, so that she would have enough support to learn. Thank God, my daughter is still studying. Even after all these years, Ms. Rodriguez remains in contact with us, and she told my daughter that there was a vacancy at the school where she was the assistant principal and asked if she wanted to work as an assistant, and she accepted. Ms. Rodriguez gave her advice; she told her to try out all the different areas of the school to see where she felt most comfortable. My daughter was in the office with the special needs children, with all of them, until fifth grade, and she decided to work with the special needs children who have autism, don't speak, and have behavioral problems. She's an assistant and has been working there for three years. She just graduated in May 2025 with her associate's degree and is continuing her studies because she wants to be a teacher like Ms. Rodriguez. And of course, they still keep in touch; if she needs help, Ms. Rodriguez is there for her. I think she deserves this great award for being the best, dedicated with love, patience, and empathy to all her students. EXCELLENT TEACHER.
Miriam leads with both strength and humility, powerful yet approachable, demanding yet loving. She lifts up everyone around her, from students to staff to the community, making everyone feel seen and valued.
Miriam creates a sense of belonging wherever she goes. She builds authentic relationships with students, staff, and families, helping everyone feel supported, respected, and capable of their best.
Her impact goes beyond the school walls. Miriam inspires courage, resilience, and confidence, quietly empowering those around her to rise up and succeed!
"Congratulations on your new role as principal! Your dedication and passion for education have always inspired our children, and it’s wonderful to see you take on this leadership position. Your commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment will undoubtedly have a positive impact on every student. We are excited to see the wonderful things you will accomplish in this new chapter!"
Supermerecedora de este premio, por su dedicación,profesional y personal en el campo de la educación.
Miriam is a dedicated principal to her students, staff and community. She loves what she does and is such a giving person. She deserves any award coming her way!
Congratulations!!! You're an excelent profesional, but most important is your entire dedication to the childrens' education, this is what we make to you, a correct and awesome person.
Brilliant, dedicated, passionate about her students and colleagues. She leads by example, and she's an example of what's good and kind in this world. Cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor.
Miriam Rodriguez is a Life Changer and leader who walks beside her staff and students during their triumphs and during their challenges. With enthusiasm and empathy she encourages all to be successful in their unique way. She believes her students and teachers achieve this success through diligence, cooperation, and curiosity. Miriam’s students thrive at Botello Elementary because ultimately they feel safe, respected, and supported under her leadership.
Working on the site based decision making committee with Miriam, I witnessed how dedicated she was to removing barriers and developing processes/systems to set students and families up for success. My son also loved interacting with her at school and appreciated how she gave him opportunities to stretch and grow.
I’ve known Ms. Rodriguez since I was in the 3rd grade. I graduated 10 years ago. She is someone who cares for the future of her students! I learned a lot when I was her student and continue to learn from her. We reconnected while I was working at a minimum wage job and she knew I can do better and be better! She inspired me to work harder and I did that. All I needed was a pep talk from my favorite teacher in my life the one who made a difference in my life. Thanks to that pep talk Im now working at Parkland Hospital as a Senior MPA. She is deserving of this award and more!
Miriam is the epitome of an excellent educator. She is passionate about making a positive impact daily in the lives of the students and educators she serves and leads. As the daughter of immigrants, a second language learner and first generation college graduate in the US, she serves as an excellent role model for students, demonstrating that with hard work and tenacity, they too can achieve great things! Her family, colleagues and Dallas community she serves are all proud of the lasting impact she makes every single day! She is a worthy recipient of this award! Go Miriam!!
Miriam Rodriguez is a Life Changer and leader who walks beside her staff and students during their triumphs and during their challenges. With enthusiasm and empathy she encourages all to be successful in their unique way. She believes her students and teachers achieve this success through diligence, cooperation, and curiosity. Miriam’s students thrive at Botello Elementary because ultimately they feel safe, respected, and supported under her leadership.
This is well deserved! She cares deeply about kids, public schools and the community. She works extremely hard every single day and our community is blessed to have her.
Miriam is an example of dedication to teaching. She is always looking for the best techniques and methods so that her students can develop their skills to the fullest.
I’ve known Miriam since we met in college, and I couldn’t agree more with this description of her. She has always been a natural leader, a caring friend, a self-sacrificing daughter and mother, a dedicated teacher and administrator, and exactly the kind of friend a stranger might need. She has a way of making everyone feel comfortable and accepted. She never ceases to impress me with how naturally she draws people out of their discomfort. I can imagine the kind of classroom environment she created as a teacher. Listening to the way she used to speak about her students, I know she wasn’t just a favorite teacher, but a meaningful and lifelong presence in their lives. Likewise, the way she talks about her team of teachers now tells me a lot about the school culture she creates. I could go on and on about Miriam. She has my deepest respect.
You are already a winner. You and your family have always been amazing people. Always helping and doing things from the heart. You got this!
