South Miami Senior High School
General Information
About South Miami Senior High School
South Miami Senior High School is a dynamic and culturally rich public high school located in the Miami‑Dade County Public Schools district. Founded in 1971, the school serves grades 9 through 12 and emphasizes academic readiness, global citizenship, and community engagement. With award‑winning magnet and Cambridge International programs, South Miami Senior High supports students through rigorous curricula and a wide variety of extracurricular offerings. The school strives to prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong learning by fostering intellectual curiosity, collaborative work, and personal responsibility.
Its mission underscores the importance of a safe and nurturing educational environment that demands high academic performance, encourages students to take risks and achieve goals, and expands their sense of self‑worth while promoting contributions to both the school and local community. Many students participate in advanced academic programs, dual enrollment, and specialized career pathways. The school also celebrates its diverse student body, rich culture, and urban setting, enabling students to thrive in a globally connected environment where they learn not only content but also how to be responsible citizens in an interconnected world.
Contact Information
Address: 6856 SW 53rd Street, Miami, Florida 33155
Phone Number: (305) 666‑5871
Email Address: (General information contact) – use the school’s main administrative email for inquiries.
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1971 |
| School Type | Public magnet high school (grades 9–12) |
| Motto | “Our Hope and Pride” |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Mascot | Cobras |
| School Colors | Orange and Brown |
| Enrollment | Approx. 1,576 (2023‑24) |
South Miami Senior High School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank/Status |
|---|---|
| Florida Public High Schools | Ranked lower half in state; within bottom ~24% of FL schools |
| National Public High Schools | Within many thousands; no specific national rank available |
| Arts/Academic Magnet Schools in Florida | #45 of 57 for “Best High Schools for the Arts in Florida” |
| Graduation Rate | Approx. 95% |
South Miami Senior High School Academics
South Miami Senior High School Faculties / Departments
- English / Literature Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies / History Department
- World Languages Department
- Visual & Performing Arts Department (Magnet)
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) Department
- Business, Technology & Media Department
- Cambridge International/Advanced Programs Department
- Athletics, Health & Physical Education Department
South Miami Senior High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Cambridge AICE diploma program and courses
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses in core subjects
- Dual Enrollment courses with college credit available
- Visual & Performing Arts Magnet program (music, theatre, film, visual arts)
- Biomedical Academy or health‑science pathways
- Robotics, Architecture & Construction CTE pathways
- Business and Media electives
- Foreign language options (Spanish, French, Italian)
- STEM electives and labs
- Honors/college‑prep tracks
Online Learning
South Miami Senior High School integrates digital tools and blended learning practices to support instructional flexibility. Students can access online platforms for coursework review, virtual modules, and supplementary assignments. While in‑person instruction remains foundational, online learning supports resource access, independent study, and remediation. The school offers dual enrollment and virtual options for enrichment or required credits, ensuring that students able to benefit from remote or blended modalities are supported accordingly.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Approx. 1100 |
| ACT | Approx. 22 |
| State proficiency (Reading) | 37% |
| State proficiency (Math) | 26% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
South Miami Senior High School boasts a graduation rate of about 95% indicating strong completion in the senior class. The retention rate—reflecting students who progress each year—mirrors the school’s commitment to student support, though specific retention figures are not readily published. The school’s dual enrollment and magnet programs further support students through to graduation by offering rigorous and engaging pathways.
South Miami Senior High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As part of the Miami‑Dade County Public Schools, South Miami Senior High School enrolls students by zoning and via its magnet programs. There is no rigid GPA or test‑score minimum for general admission. However, students opting into specialized magnet tracks (Cambridge AICE, Visual & Performing Arts, Biomedical etc.) are expected to demonstrate readiness, initiative, and commitment. Historical averages for college‑ready students at the school reflect SAT scores around 1100 and ACT around 22.
South Miami Senior High School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| General Zoning Enrollment | Open to students in zone |
| Magnet/Academy Program Seats | Competitive; specific rate not published |
South Miami Senior High School Application Requirements
Prospective students applying to South Miami Senior High’s magnet or academy programs should complete an application, provide transcripts, and participate in relevant auditions or evaluations depending on program (e.g., performing arts portfolio or biomedical interest). For general enrollment, students must reside within the school’s attendance zone and complete Miami‑Dade County enrollment documentation including proof of age, immunization records, proof of residency, and prior school records. The school welcomes student ambition, creativity, and a willingness to engage in their chosen program of study.
Application Process
- Submit Miami‑Dade County public school enrollment form or magnet program application
- Provide proof of residency, birth certificate and immunization records
- Submit previous academic transcripts (for transfer/magnet students)
- Complete program‑specific evaluation (for magnet applicants)
- Receive acceptance or waitlist notification
- Complete registration and orientation
South Miami Senior High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Magnet Application Opens | October annually |
| Magnet Application Deadline | January of the following year |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Following spring |
| School Year Begins | August |
Essay Prompt
For magnet or specialized academy programs, applicants may be asked to submit a brief personal statement outlining their interest in the program, goals, and how they will contribute to the school community.
South Miami Senior High School Scholarships
As a public high school, there is no tuition; however, graduating seniors may qualify for various merit‑based scholarships through the school’s guidance department, and external state or national scholarships. The school supports students with counseling and access to scholarship resources.
South Miami Senior High School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (public school) |
| Activity/Club Fees | Variable |
| Uniform/Materials | Varies by program |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
South Miami Senior High School serves a highly diverse student body with an enrollment of around 1,576 students in 2023‑24. Demographic composition reflects approximately 92.6% Hispanic, 3.6% African American, and 3.0% White non‑Hispanic students. Gender distribution is roughly 53% male and 47% female.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 52% of students qualify for free or reduced‑price lunch, indicating a significant portion of the student body comes from low‑income households. The school provides special education services and accommodations per federal and state mandates.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Ratio |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 1,576 |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | 20.47 : 1 |
University Diversity
Diversity at South Miami Senior High School is both a hallmark and an asset. The overwhelming Hispanic majority provides an enriched cultural context in which bilingualism, immigrant experiences, and global perspectives are everyday realities. Students collaborate across backgrounds, engage in multicultural events, and participate in programs reflecting Miami’s rich tapestry of heritage and language. The magnet and Cambridge programs foster global readiness, while arts and career‑focused academies draw students from diverse neighborhoods. This broad representation enables students to learn from one another’s unique perspectives, preparing them to thrive in a multinational, interconnected world where empathy, cultural fluency, and adaptability are key.
Average Earnings
As a high school institution, direct alumni earnings are not tracked by the school itself; however, the school boasts a 95% graduation rate, which typically correlates with higher post‑secondary enrollment and improved long‑term earning prospects. Graduates who engage in the school’s dual enrollment, AP, and magnet offerings gain college credits and enhanced readiness, positioning them for competitive majors and careers. The school’s emphasis on college and career pathways, including biomedical and media/arts tracks, ensures students are equipped with skills that support upward mobility and meaningful work in evolving industries.
South Miami Senior High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
South Miami Senior High School is staffed by certified educators and support personnel committed to student success. With approximately 77 full‑time equivalent classroom teachers for the 2023‑24 school year, the teacher‑to‑student ratio stands around 1 to 20.47.The faculty includes magnet program instructors, career‑technical education teachers, and college‑readiness specialists, all contributing to the school’s multifaceted academic environment.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at South Miami Senior High School bring diverse expertise. Some are nationally certified in the Cambridge International curriculum, others have career backgrounds in performing arts, media, or health sciences supporting the school’s specialized academies. Their achievements include mentoring students in national competitions, guiding dual enrollment classes, and leading highly regarded arts productions. Their dedication and professional development ensure a vibrant instructional culture that supports both student growth and program innovation.
South Miami Senior High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
South Miami Senior High School’s campus features academic buildings, arts and media studios, science labs, and athletic facilities including fields and gymnasiums. Students participate in over 30 clubs and 26 sports teams, from athletics to theatre, robotics to business competitions. The school’s spirit is driven by its Cobra mascot and vibrant community traditions such as Multicultural Day and Homecoming. As a day school, there is no on‑campus housing; however, the sense of community among students, staff, and families is strong, promoting leadership, belonging, and student engagement.
Transportation
The campus is located in Glenvar Heights / Miami area at 6856 SW 53rd Street, making it accessible by major roadways and public transit. Miami‑Dade County School buses serve eligible students, and ample drop‑off/pick‑up zones, carpool lanes, and pedestrian access help to ensure safe and efficient commuting. Students also have access to public transportation depending on their neighborhood.