Military Families

Thanks to School Board Policy 2370 "dependent children of active-duty military personnel receive priority admission" to our school. Families will need to provide active military orders at the time of application. Please note, that out of consideration for deployments and orders that may not fall in-line with the traditional school calendar these applications will be received and reviewed throughout the school year. Students must still meet admission requirements in order to qualify for admission and will be accepted on a space-available basis.

Out of appreciation for the service veterans and disabled veterans have provided to our nation, and in compliance with School Board Policy 2370, "priority is given to children of veterans. To qualify, Veteran families will need to provide discharge papers (DD-214) showing service dates and an honorable discharge. If a parent has a service-connected disability, they will also need a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs."

For more details on either of these priorities offered to military families, please review "Understanding the Magnet School Board Policy 2370" on the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Magnet Application Priorities webpage.

Miami Sunset Senior High’s Army JROTC program offers a comprehensive, student-led transition initiative designed to help new cadets adjust to both the school environment and the unique culture of JROTC. Guided by our JROTC instructors, this program combines structured peer support with leadership development to ensure every new cadet feels welcomed and prepared.

Central to this program is the mentorship provided by officer cadets and other high-performing cadets who serve as role models and guides. These student leaders support new cadets through campus tours, introductions to key student leaders, and ongoing mentorship that fosters a sense of belonging and confidence.

A cornerstone of the transition program is the summer leadership camp, which immerses new cadets in the values and expectations of JROTC. Through hands-on training, team-building activities, and leadership exercises, incoming cadets form strong peer connections while gaining the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the program.

Together, these efforts create a supportive, student-driven framework that eases the transition for new cadets and sets the foundation for future leadership and growth within JROTC.

At Miami Sunset Senior High, we provide a wide range of course offerings designed to meet the diverse needs and goals of our students. These include three specialized magnet programs, along with numerous Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment opportunities that challenge and prepare students for future success.

Our dedicated counseling team works closely with new military-connected students to create personalized schedules, ensuring that prior coursework is properly credited and that each student experiences a smooth transition into Miami Sunset. In addition, our Student Services team is readily available to provide ongoing assistance with both academic and personal needs.

At Miami Sunset, your student’s success and seamless integration are our highest priorities. We are committed to supporting every student as they find their place and thrive within our school community.

Miami Sunset Offers:
                a. Advanced Placement (AP) Course
                b. Dual Enrollment through Miami Dade College
                c. Engineering Magnet
                d. Medical Magnet
                e. Communications Magnet
                f. Academy of Business
                g. Academy of Hospitality & Tourism
                h. Visual and Performing Arts
                j. Student Services Department

In addition to our extensive course offerings and specialized magnet programs, Miami Sunset Senior High provides a wide variety of athletics, extracurricular activities, and student support services to ensure a well-rounded and enriching high school experience.

To further support our military-connected families, we have compiled a comprehensive resource list designed to assist with everything from academic transitions to community connections. Our goal is to ensure that every student and family feels supported, connected, and fully integrated into the Sunset community.

5. 1. Miami Sunset Senior High School Clubs and Activities
   2. Miami Sunset Senior High School Athletics
   3. Miami Dade College (MDC) Dual Enrollment
   4. Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission
   5. Military OneSource
   6. List of Military Family Resources
   7. Miami Army MWR School Support Services Website

At Miami Sunset Senior High, we understand the unique challenges military families face, particularly the impact frequent relocations can have on a student’s educational journey. In alignment with Florida’s commitment to the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, we are dedicated to providing smooth transitions and comprehensive support for every military-connected student.

Our school develops individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to meet the specific needs of each student, including those from military families. In partnership with the Military OneSource Exceptional Family Member Program, we offer specialized assistance for families navigating medical or educational requirements during their assignments.

Our Exceptional Student Education (ESE) team collaborates closely with this program to ensure that services are coordinated seamlessly. Regular meetings with teachers, parents, and students help us implement accommodations effectively and monitor progress through ongoing follow-up sessions.

Through these efforts, we aim to provide not only consistency and stability, but also the tools and support necessary for our military-connected students to thrive at Miami Sunset Senior High.

Point of Contact:

Christina Werner
Program Specialist, Exceptional Students Education
wernerc@dadeschools.net

At Miami Sunset Senior High, we proudly offer a variety of activities and events designed to support our military-connected students and families. In addition to the many opportunities available throughout the school year, our College Assistance Program advisor regularly hosts assemblies and recruitment events specifically tailored to students with military interests.

We also welcome representatives from all branches of the military on a weekly basis, providing students with the opportunity to explore potential careers, ask questions, and receive one-on-one guidance.

Whether your student is considering military service, exploring career pathways, or simply seeking support as a military-connected student, Miami Sunset is committed to providing guidance and resources every step of the way. Below is a list of activities and events available to our students.

Points of Contact:

a. Julio Velez, Captain
JROTC Instructor
julio.velez@dadeschools.net

b. Yvette Rosell
CAP Advisor
yrosell@dadeschools.net

Miami Sunset Senior High is supported by a comprehensive team of counselors and mental health professionals dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by all students, including those from military families.

All staff members have received Teen Mental Health First Aid (TMHFA) training, equipping them to recognize, understand, and respond effectively to signs of mental health concerns or substance use disorders among students. With this level of training and care, we ensure that students have timely access to the support and resources they need to thrive both academically and personally.

Please access the links below for resources:

 Student Services and School-Based Mental Health Services Website

List of Military Family Resources

Miami Army MWR School Support Services Website

Military Teens and Mental Health

Military Child Wellbeing tool kit (https://militarychild.org/resource/wellbeing-toolkit/)

At Miami Sunset Senior High, we warmly invite active-duty military parents to join our community as volunteers! Your participation can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and support a variety of school activities.

If you are interested in volunteering, please register using the link below. We look forward to welcoming you as a valued member of the Knights family!

https://www.engagemiamidade.net/volunteers