Principal of the Year Drives New Car Home

MIAMI, FL — Maritza Jimenez has been named Principal of the Year by Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Gimenez holds the top job at Hialeah Gardens Middle School. She drove home in a new car on Friday courtesy of Hollywood Toyota in recognition of her achievement.

"It's a fantastic day @hgmsjaguars! Principal of the Year Maritza Jimenez receives a car, compliments of @Toyota of Hollywood," district officials tweeted. (Sign up for our free Daily Newsletters and Breaking News Alerts for the Miami Patch.)

Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho was on hand for the award ceremony.

Gimenez has served as principal of Hialeah Gardens Middle School since 2008. She has more than 20 years of experience in administration and curricular expertise.

During her tenure at HGMS, Gimenez has boosted test scores and attendance rates, while instituting an International Cambridge Program and several popular and successful academies.

Principal of the Year Maritza Jimenez holds a ceremonial key courtesy of Miami-Dade County Public Schools