Mariana Alvarez - Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL)- Thursday Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) senior Marielis Lopez was recognized and performed in the 40th Migrant Education Awards Ceremony held in the LRHS auditorium.
The ceremony recognizes migrant students in Manatee County for their great talents.
With LRHS English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher Sandra Delgado’s connection with the coordinator of the migrant ceremony, Sandra Marines, Lopez was recognized along with 24 students from Manatee County and four students from LRHS.
Delgado said “When we found out she was going to be recognized at the ceremony we started brainstorming and planning out her performance. She rehearsed with me every for about 10 days up until the ceremony to ensure she was ready to be on stage.”
Lopez moved to Florida from Venezuela just 2 years ago. She always loved singing and is involved in a band that performs different types of music. Her dad teaches her techniques during singing lessons, often at home, and is also involved in a mariachi band himself.
She says, “I love singing; it makes me feel happy and relaxed. Sharing it with others makes it even more special.”
Stay updated on more LRHS news by following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or follow the Mustangs Ahead Podcast on Spotify
Lopez is also involved in the LRHS chorus. Chorus Director Rebekah Lester has guided her and has introduced her to different performance environments, which has made her feel more confident when singing on stage.
Lester said “We have been so fortunate to have her a part of our choir. Lopez has been a part of our program for two years now singing alto voice; her voice is beautiful.”
The intense rehearsals Mirielis did up until the ceremony paid off. The audience’s reaction showed the true impact her talent has on others and how beautiful her voice truly is.
Delgado said, “The audience’s reaction was very positive, something some were not expecting, and I think the performance is something they will never forget.”