This year, we are proud to honor Jimmy Michel as our 2026 Educator of Note Winner—a passionate educator, arts advocate, and inspiring leader whose work continues to transform young lives through music and the performing arts.

A Haitian American educator, Jimmy was born in Haiti and has called Florida home for more than 40 years, having moved to the United States in 1986. His love for the arts began early, nurtured through school and church musicals, and flourished throughout high school, where he was actively involved in chorus, band, and drama. He later earned degrees in both business and music education, bringing together creativity with strong organizational and leadership skills. Jimmy firmly believes that the arts are essential in helping students build confidence, discipline, and a powerful sense of self-expression.

Since joining Miami-Dade County Public Schools in 2006, Jimmy has been a dedicated music educator and currently teaches at Arch Creek Elementary in North Miami. His commitment extends far beyond the classroom. In 2013, he founded Music 4 Young Voices in Coconut Creek, creating meaningful opportunities in music and drama for underprivileged youth across Broward County.

Jimmy is also an accomplished writer and producer of children’s musicals and plays, including A Christmas to Remember, which has been performed at venues such as Olympic Heights Theatre in Boca Raton, Coral Springs High Theater, and various churches throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties. In addition, he has welcomed the In-School Opera to his school on numerous occasions and actively incorporates YPO’s Opera Funtime booklets into his classroom. Most notably, his students brought Romeo and Juliet to life through the “Act It Out” section of the Funtime book, performing on stage for their peers and members of the North Miami community. Through concerts, musicals, and before- and after-school programs, Mr. Michel consistently engages and inspires his students, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

With an unwavering dedication to enriching young lives, Jimmy continues to lead dynamic school programs and community initiatives—and we look forward to seeing his impact grow in the years ahead.