
Do the right thing Jan 2025 {Photos by Coconut Creek Police}
During Thursday’s commission meeting, the Coconut Creek Police Department honored several students and a teacher for their outstanding contributions to their schools as part of the “Do the Right Thing Awards” program. The awards celebrate individuals who have made a positive impact in their communities. This month’s presenter was Dr. Howard Hepburn, the superintendent of Broward County Public Schools.
Mark Knight and Miles Morgan – Tradewinds Elementary School

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn with Mark Knight and Miles Morgan.
Principal Priscille Elie of Tradewinds Elementary nominated third-graders, Mark Knight and Miles Morgan. On December 18, just before Winter Break, the boys alerted her about individuals knocking on a side door of the school. Following the principal’s instructions about school security, they refrained from opening the locked door, which could compromise safety.
Upon investigation, the individuals were 4th and 5th graders returning from a field trip. Principal Elie commended the boys for their vigilance and commitment to school security, emphasizing the importance of their actions in keeping the campus safe.
Veruska Rojas – Lyons Creek Middle School
Spanish teacher Luisa Betancourt nominated eighth-grader Veruska Rojas for her exemplary behavior. A member of the National Junior Honor Society, Rojas is active in the Math Club and SECME (Science, Engineering, Communications, Mathematics, and Enrichment) Club. She excels in advanced Spanish, Geometry, and Biology classes through Broward County Schools’ Cambridge program.
In addition to her academic achievements, Rojas volunteers at Mary Help of Christians Church in Parkland and recently earned her black belt in martial arts.
Seanesha Roberts – Coconut Creek High School

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn with Seanesha Roberts
Nominated by teacher Troy Grant, Seanesha Roberts, a junior at Coconut Creek High School, displayed integrity when she found and returned an iPhone left in the school auditorium. The student who lost the phone was thrilled to have it returned, and Roberts’ actions were praised by her mother, Amelia, who highlighted her daughter’s moral character and strong work ethic.
In addition to excelling in school, Roberts works as a cashier at Publix and frequently volunteers at Church by the Glades in Coral Springs. She plans to pursue a career in forensic science or marine biology.
Alyssa Ali – Lyons Creek Middle School

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn with Alyssa Ali
Seventh-grader Alyssa Ali was nominated by Language Arts teacher Meredith Blitz, who described her as a remarkable individual with contagious positive energy. Blitz praised Ali’s academic progress, eagerness to help her peers, and commitment to uplifting the student body.
Ali’s contributions extend beyond the classroom, making Lyons Creek Middle School a better place for all students.
Fabio Cabrera – Coconut Creek High School

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn with Fabio Cabrera and students.
The “Do the Right Thing” Teacher of the Month award was presented to Coconut Creek High School’s Language Arts teacher, Fabio Cabrera. Nominated by Mayor Sandra Welch, Cabrera was recognized for his leadership in establishing a chapter of the Make Our Schools Safe (MOSS) program at the school.
MOSS, founded by Lori and Ilan Alhadeff after the 2018 tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, promotes a culture of safety and awareness. Cabrera’s efforts led to recruiting nearly two dozen students for the club, which collaborates with school security and staff to implement safety measures and emergency preparedness training.
These honorees exemplify the spirit of the “Do the Right Thing” program, which celebrates individuals who inspire positive change and uphold community values.
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