When you step into Makenna Maldonado’s classroom at Shadeville Elementary School, learning is not something that happens to students — it happens with them.
A fifth-grade English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher with six years of experience, Maldonado has built her career around helping students discover their own curiosity, confidence, and voice. In her classroom, thoughtful instruction paired with strong relationships, creates a space where students feel loved, capable, and supported.
Maldonado’s passion for teaching is rooted in a deep love of learning — both her own and her students’. With academic foundations in philosophy and psychology, she has long been fascinated by the intricacies of knowledge and how it is formed. That curiosity continues to shape her work in the classroom.
“To share in this love of learning, to nurture it in my students and watch it prosper, that is what inspires me each day,” Maldonado reflected in her written professional portfolio submitted to the District Teacher of the Year review panel.
Her students have demonstrated consistent growth in reading achievement, including those receiving intensive reading support, exceptional student education services, and gifted instruction. Maldonado maintains high expectations for all learners, recognizing that success looks different for every child.
“While the path to reaching grade-level expectations may look different for every student, holding each student accountable while encouraging them is key to their success,” she shared.
Beyond her classroom, Maldonado is recognized as a leader among her peers. She serves as a Professional Learning Community Leader, supporting collaborative planning, instructional reflection, and data analysis. She has also contributed to curriculum development and research-based instructional practices focused on literacy and feedback for educators statewide.
“I will continue providing instructional tools and working to positively impact literacy outcomes for Florida students,” Maldonado noted.
Her impact extends well beyond the school day. Maldonado co-directed Wakulla County Schools’ Summer Enrichment Camp, coached Odyssey of the Mind teams, and played a leading role in the development of Rock Your School at Shadeville Elementary — a schoolwide initiative designed to bring renewed passion into teaching and learning.
Through Rock Your School, students were encouraged to connect classroom learning with community service and citizenship in meaningful ways. Maldonado observed a visible shift in school culture as students became more intentional and engaged in their efforts to serve others. In its second year, the initiative centered on a book drive benefiting Family Promise of the Big Bend, during which students collected nearly 1,400 books for the organization’s on-site library.
“This year’s project showcased a shift in intentionality,” Maldonado reflected. “Students were not only helping their community but actively wanted to help.”
This commitment to students, instructional excellence, and leadership led to Maldonado’s selection as Wakulla County Schools’ 2025–2026 District Teacher of the Year, an honor that reflects both her impact in the classroom and the values of public education she represents.
