Administration

Lisa Aviles-Knight

PRINCIPAL

Mrs. Lisa Aviles-Knight serves as the Principal at Dade Prep Academy. With almost two decades of dedicated experience within the Miami-Dade Public Schools system, she has spent the last six years as an Assistant Principal, specializing in Curriculum and Instruction. Prior to that role, her journey in education began as a High School Math teacher and Science Coach. Lisa’s academic background includes an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. Her commitment lies in fostering an environment of excellence and growth for the students, staff, and the entire Dade Prep community.

Mark Strickland

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT

Mark Strickland AKA “Pogoman” is a retired American professional basketball player who played for the National Basketball Association (NBA) for ten seasons, four which were spent with the Miami Heat. The other six years were split between Denver Nuggets, New Jersey Nets, Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers and Dallas Mavericks. In addition to playing in the NBA, Strickland played seven seasons internationally in the professional Euro leagues in; China, Dubai, Jordan, Quatar, Lebanon, France and Puerto Rico where he lead his team to a championship. Mark has studied, played and trained with Hall of Fame coaches such as; Travis Grant, John Chaney, Pat Riley, George Karl, Don Nelson and Larry Brown. With those skills Mark went on to coach high school, college, and the NBA D-League (developmental league). Through his basketball experiences Mark has taken pointers from each mentor and molded a blue print for success within professional, college, prep and high school basketball. Mark is an active member of the National Basketball Retired Players Association “NBRPA”. In 2015, Mark Strickland was the master mind behind the launch of the National Basketball Retired Players Association and Cancer Treatment Centers of America Partnership to Increase Awareness of Prostate Cancer. The National Basketball Retired Players Association (NBRPA) and Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) are partnering to raise awareness of early detection screenings. Mark and his wife Tomi are the first family to raise awareness and funds for The Ara Initiative, a mission to provide universal access to clean drinking water to the children in the United States.

Angelique Pacheco

BILLING AND ENROLLMENT MANAGER

Ms. Angelique Pacheco, with a passion for education, law, and sports, has achieved success in her professional and athletic career. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Trinity International University, a Master’s Degree in Law from Trinity Law School, and a Paralegal Diploma from Florida International University. Angelique has developed skills and focuses on strong commitment and further enhancement in her job as well as in the sports arena. In addition, her background as both a collegiate and professional tennis player exemplifies her determination, discipline, and competitive spirit. She demonstrates passion and dedication to lead Dade Prep Academy as Assistant Principal. She focuses on providing unique support and assistance to the school’s administration and ensures that parents and students receive excellent support and assistance.

Rosita Darce-Morales

HUMAN RESOURCE GENERALIST

Mrs. Rosita Darce-Morales serves as the HR Generalist at Dade Prep Academy, bringing more than 20 years of progressive experience in business administration and management. She holds a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management and is SHRM-CP certified, with over 15 years of dedicated focus in the human resources field. Mrs. Darce-Morales is recognized for her strategic mindset, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence. She effectively supports leadership and staff through sound HR practices, employee relations, and organizational development initiatives. Her professionalism, integrity, and dedication contribute to fostering a positive workplace culture while ensuring compliance, efficiency, and continuous growth within the organization.

Lilibet Sosa

INTERIM PRINCIPAL

Dr. Lilibet Sosa serves as the Interim Principal of Dade Prep Academy, bringing over a decade of leadership experience in Miami‑Dade County Public Schools. With a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and a proven track record as an assistant principal, instructional supervisor, and instructional coach, Dr. Sosa is deeply committed to fostering academic excellence, supporting teachers, and creating a positive, student‑centered school culture. She has dedicated herself to supporting students, teachers, and families with care and intention. Her goal is to help create a school community where every child feels welcomed, supported, and inspired to succeed. Her background in strategic planning and professional development guides her mission to ensure every student at Dade Prep Academy thrives. Dr. Sosa believes deeply in strong relationships, open communication, and working together with the families to build a positive and empowering environment for all.