(L to R): Honoree Valerie Martin's son Eric Martin Taylor and husband Barrington Taylor; Honoree Alvin Davis with daughter Caitlyn and wife Tiffani.

MIRAMAR – The City of Miramar announces that it will establish a commemorative pathway called Education Row at the Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark to honor distinguished educators representing all artistic disciplines.

According to Miramar Mayor Lori Cohen Moseley, "The City will honor educators for their work, cultural expression and community involvement with pavers along Education Row which also will commemorate their significant contributions to the arts and to the cultural identity and heritage of Miramar and its residents."

Inaugural honors for education row were bestowed upon Alvin A. Davis and, posthumously, Valerie E. Martin. As Miramar High School's band director, Davis is renowned for motivating his students both in music and academics. For the past four years, every member of the band has graduated and attended college. Davis was recognized in 2012 as Broward County Teacher of the Year, Florida Teacher of the Year and was a finalist for National Teacher of the Year.

An educator, poet, playwright and actress, Martin was a teacher at Sunshine Elementary School for 19 years until she passed away in October 2012. During her tenure, she created a platform for the arts, working steadfastly to ensure that the arts were an education staple. She also was recognized as one of Miramar's most active arts patrons.
"Both Alvin Davis and Valerie Martin have devoted their lives not only to the arts but to inspiring children to achieve success and become active members of the community," added Moseley.

The City of Miramar is accepting nominations for Education Row. Individuals or organizations can email Education@MiramarCulturalCenter.org or log on to www.MiramarCulturalCenter.org to find out more information about nomination criteria, to obtain a nomination form and complete the nomination process.

Once reviewed by the City of Miramar and a nomination is accepted, there will be a $50 processing fee. Honorees will be recognized at a Miramar City Commission meeting and commemorative pavers with the inductees' names will be added in Education Row at the Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark.

For more information, contact 954-602-4521.