NewsWSVN 7 MiamiJuly 29, 2026Miami-Dade
Rafael Villalobos Named New Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent
The Miami-Dade School Board has unanimously appointed Rafael Villalobos as the new superintendent of the district. Villalobos, currently a regional superintendent, will succeed Dr. Jose Dotres, whose contract concludes in February 2027.
Read the full story at WSVN 7 MiamiWhy It Matters
The appointment changes the top leadership of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools district, which serves over 80,000 students in the South Region alone and holds an 'A' district rating.
Key Facts
- The Miami-Dade School Board unanimously approved Rafael Villalobos as the new superintendent.
- Villalobos will replace outgoing superintendent Dr. Jose Dotres.
- Dr. Jose Dotres' contract is scheduled to end in February 2027.
- Villalobos previously served as the South Region Superintendent, overseeing 100 schools and 80,000 students.
- Villalobos was named Principal of the Year in 2020.
- Villalobos founded the Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial High School in 2008.
- The district has maintained an 'A' rating for seven consecutive years.
- Villalobos identified falling enrollment as his primary challenge.
- A start date for Villalobos has not yet been determined.
Who's Mentioned
locationBooker T. Washington Senior High School“School where Villalobos served as principal”personRafael Villalobos“Incoming Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools”organizationMiami-Dade School Board“Governing body that selected the new superintendent”personDr. Jose Dotres“Outgoing Superintendent whose contract ends in February 2027”other80,000“Number of students overseen by Villalobos as South Region Superintendent”locationLaw Enforcement Officers’ Memorial High School“School founded by Villalobos in 2008”other100“Number of schools overseen by Villalobos as South Region Superintendent”personErnie Lozano“Finalist for the superintendent position”locationJohn A. Ferguson Senior High School“School where Villalobos served as principal”locationMiami Springs Senior High School“School where Villalobos served as principal”locationSouth Dade Senior High School“Where Villalobos started his teaching career”