Studying math seems like a drag to some students, but Mrs. Garnett’s devotion to her students outweighs that. In May, our very own Mrs. Garnett was awarded the Marlins MVP Award in recognition of her influence and dedication. Each school year, the Marlins Organization selects a teacher to honor monthly and presents the award in front of students and peers. The award was presented by Billy the Marlin himself.

The award recipient is also recognized during a 2025 Miami Marlins game at LoanDepot Park. During the 2024-2025 school year, the Marlins select nine teachers from South Florida, nominated by current and former students, parents and peers, to be recognized as an MVP Teacher.

To Mrs. Garnett, this all came as an unexpected surprise. “We had gotten a weekly briefing about it, so I knew the contest was out there, but being nominated came as a nice surprise,” says Mrs. Garnett. Her drive to inspire all who enter her classroom was something she’s wanted to accomplish since she was in second grade. “I knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was in second grade, and it never changed.” To Mrs. Garnett, instilling a passion for learning and helping students develop math skills is something that she feels students can take with them into the world.

Because this award came from those she has taught and mentored, it meant more to her than the awards itself. “The fact that it came from students and the premise was based on whether I have made a positive impact on their life, is why I am in this profession.”