For 37 years, FIU alumnus Roberto Rabelo ’93 has helped students believe they are capable of more. 

Now, the South Miami Middle Community School educator has been named the 2027 Francisco R. Walker Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year, recognizing a career built on academic achievement, discipline, compassion, and service.

An FIU Education in Action

Rabelo’s experience at FIU helped shape the discipline and sense of purpose he now brings to the classroom. As a young father balancing college with two jobs, he learned to manage his time, establish priorities, and focus on what mattered most. Today, he teaches those same habits to his students. 

Before students arrive, Rabelo shares the day’s lessons, standards, and responsibilities with parents. He also arrives early to offer additional help. 

Once class begins, students recite 10 positive affirmations designed to reduce anxiety, strengthen focus, and prepare them to learn. His approach has delivered measurable results. His students’ civics End-of-Course assessment scores increased from 64 percent to 83 percent in one year. 

But his classroom is not built around scores alone. 

“My classroom is a sanctuary,” Rabelo said. “It’s a place where they feel loved, nurtured, and supported.” 

That philosophy also inspired him to establish The Power of One and ICLK, which stands for Inspiring, Love, and Kindness. Both are student-led initiatives that encourage compassion, kindness, and meaningful community service. 

Teaching with Purpose

For Rabelo, teaching is also a way to honor his parents. His father arrived from Cuba with a suitcase and $23, began working as a dishwasher, and later purchased a restaurant. From his mother, he learned compassion and how to care for others. 

Their influence lives on in a classroom where students are expected to work hard, support one another, and believe they are limitless. 

Read more about Roberto Rabelo’s journey and recognition in FIU News.