

Carmen M. Garcia
Principal
I am honored to begin this new chapter as Principal of AcadeMir Charter School East and East Middle for the 2026 – 2027 school year. With 39 years of experience in education, as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, I am excited to begin my 29th year as a principal and to serve this outstanding school community. This year’s theme, “Racing Into Excellence,” reflects our energy, determination, and commitment to helping every student reach their full potential.
I am especially proud that AcadeMir Charter School East and East Middle has been recognized by the Florida Department of Education for earning a Double A School Grade. This achievement reflects the hard work of our students, families, teachers, and staff. Together, we will continue working toward the same commitment, vision, and mission: ensuring that every child has the opportunity and support to succeed.
Our work this year will be guided by five pillars: continuing a culture of excellence; ensuring that every child matters and is recognized and valued; cultivating character and leadership in all students; pursuing academic excellence; and embracing “One Team, One Vision, Together.” By working together with high expectations, care, and open communication, we will build an even stronger, welcoming, and inspiring school community.

Ms. Valladares
Asst. Principal
With over 18 years of experience, Ms. Valladares’ educational experience began after having earned an Associate degree in Elementary Education and an Associate in Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Miami Dade College. She then pursued a Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education and a Master Level in Educational Leadership from Barry University. Ms. Valladares has been able to acquire a well-rounded level of educational expertise by holding positions in a number of different capacities, such as: elementary school teacher, grade level lead, science coach, STEM liaison, test chair, ESOL coordinator and most recently Assistant Principal. Altogether these distinct roles and experiences have given her the opportunity to see the different facets of running an efficient and effective school.
Ms. Valladares is a leader with a passion for building the capacity of both teachers and students. She has served as an elementary teacher and science coach for AcadeMir Charter School West since 2016. During her time, ACSW remained an A rated school with high-ranking achievements in the areas of science and STEM.
More recently, Ms. Valladares supported the school in achieving Cognia STEM Certification in 2020 and Cognia reaccreditation in 2022. Ms. Valladares’ commitment to these reviews were the culmination of arduous effort and very thoughtful multi-year processes that included students, teachers and community members alike.


