Local Middle School Teacher Proud To Be A New American

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - America officially welcomed 134 new citizens at a ceremony in Miami Friday morning.

Among those taking the oath was a middle school teacher from Hollywood who brought dozens of her students with her.

Bernadette Davis said she has dreamt of this day for years.

"I've always, always, always dreamed about the day that I would come over and live in this country. And that happened when I was 19 and I can tell you that I've enjoyed myself every one of those years," she said.

Davis, who was born in Nassau, Bahamas, lives in North Miami. She teaches ethics at Apollo Middle School in Hollywood. At Friday's ceremony, Davis' cheering section included 40 of her students who came out to support her.

"They're all like super excited and pumped. They're always cheering her on. They made a sign for her and everything," said 8th grader Osiris Bury.

The students weren't just allowed to show up. They had to qualify by writing an essay as to why they wanted to be there. The process has helped them learn a few lessons.

"The most important lesson I probably learned was that being a citizen is not just a title, it's a big deal, you have responsibilities and duties to help with the United States," said 7th grader Melody Hines.

Davis said for years she felt like an American but now it's finally nice to have a certificate that makes it official.