Sheketha Ellison of Coral Glades Middle School loves her students with all her heart

MIRAMAR, Fla. – Local 10’s Tribute to Teachers campaign recognizes the best educators in South Florida each year, with just five honorees selected from hundreds of nominations.

Sheketha Ellison has taught special education at Coral Glades Middle School in Miramar for 18 years.

“These are my babies, as you can see, and I just can’t imagine doing anything else,” Ellison said.

Ellison is known for inspiring her students with her positive approach to teaching.

“She’s a great compass for us and a great anchor to bring us back and ensure that we are committed to serving all children in everything we do,” said Ricardo Santana, Principal of Glades Middle School.

Ellison’s life is shaped by what she does for others. Not only is she a special education teacher, she is a special needs mother.

“I have had the wonderful privilege of actually adopting my children from foster care. I have a son and a daughter, my son has Down Syndrome and they are the reason I keep going,” Ellison said.

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Ellison is among a select group of South Florida educators recognized by the Tribute to Teachers campaign.

The recognition also comes with a $1,000 gift card from Publix Super Markets.

Ellison is known to her peers as the school’s leadership coach. She plans to stay with them for a few more years before retiring.

“It also shows that the work I do isn’t wasted — that I’m actually touching my students’ lives, which is my ultimate goal,” Ellison said.

TIED TOGETHER: To see the stories of all winners, click here.