By Tracey Taylor - St. Brendan HS
MIAMI | Paulina Steffanoni, a world languages teacher at St. Brendan High School, is one of 17 winners of the 2014 Cervantes Outstanding Educator Awards.
The 16th annual awards ceremony, hosted by Nova Southeastern University’s Fischler School of Education, pays tribute to teachers, counselors and administrators during Hispanic Heritage Month.
“Paulina is an excellent candidate for this award because she does so much to promote the study of Spanish,” said Esther Jordan, chair of the World Languages Department at St. Brendan High School. “She is the driving force behind all of the events during Hispanic Heritage Month. Paulina coordinates the Hispanic Luncheon hosted by students for teachers, the Hispanic Heritage Mass as well as Hispanic Heritage Night, where students get a chance to showcase the various songs, dress and dance of numerous Hispanic countries.”
Steffanoni, a native of Mexico, has made significant contributions toward the success of Hispanic students, a criterion for the award. During her eight years at St. Brendan High, she has taught advanced Spanish literature courses, as well as moderated the Spanish Honor Society.
Proud of her heritage and eager to help, she has assisted Hispanic students newly arrived to this country, not only helping them transition to the United States, but also reminding them to be proud of their Hispanic culture. She is a driving force behind propelling them to strive for excellence in their academic and upcoming professional careers.
“Mrs. Steffanoni’s contributions to life at St. Brendan are invaluable. She is more than just a teacher. Her students, our school, and the community are lucky to have her,” said Principal Jose Rodelgo Bueno.