Spring Branch ISD Featured News

In high school, Madeline Margraves, now a special education teacher in Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), was voted most likely to change her major five times in college.

That prediction proved accurate. However, her unconventional road to the classroom led her to her current role at Frostwood Elementary. 

Because she loves people, Madeline explored various positions with various nonprofits. While she was looking for the ideal position, she stumbled into substitute teaching. Despite the pandemic creating havoc for educators in 2020, she pursued her teaching certificate with the Texas Teachers of Tomorrow and hasn't looked back. 

"I instantly knew where I wanted to be," she said. 

As an Elementary Teacher of the Year Finalist, Madeline is the driving force behind the Apple program, an initiative designed for students on the autism spectrum. Launched two years ago at Frostwood, the Apple program strives to create a learning environment where young students with autism can thrive, learn, and grow. 

"Kids on the autism spectrum are so smart and have so much to offer others," said Madeline. "It's all about giving them strategies and figuring out what works and doesn't for each student."

With seven students in her classroom—from kindergarten to fourth grade—Madeline loves seeing their progress. Even the smallest steps in the right direction are reason for celebration. 

"Their perseverance to learn and communicate is remarkable, and it's what keeps me motivated to show up for my students daily," said Madeline. 

Neurodivergent herself, with a diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Madeline understands the need for not just designing curriculum but raising awareness as well. Working closely with the school librarian, parents, and SBISD support staff, Madeline and her team created an educational series titled "Frostwood Celebrating Autism Awareness Month" in April.

The series covers various topics, from understanding autism to exploring how people with autism communicate. It even includes lessons in empathy and acknowledges "Minds of All Kinds," recognizing neurodiverse celebrities. 

The Autism Month initiative has gone over so well that two other schools in the district have adopted it. 

"It's exciting to see how the district has embraced the ideas, and I'm proud to see it expand," said Madeline. "When it comes down to it, it's about ensuring that students with autism have the resources and the environment they need to thrive." 

Madeline is grateful to be at Frostwood. Although her students represent 0.9% of the school, she feels they and the Apple program have become an integral part of the community. 

"My students are 100% accepted here; they are truly able to flourish," said Madeline. 

Outside of her demanding job, Madeline volunteers with her church, the Junior League, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, reflecting her deep-seated belief in the power of education and community. 

As an Elementary Teach of the Year Finalist, Madeline feels honored to represent special education. 

"It's a small population of students, but requires high support," she said. "I'm grateful to have found my place in education, where I feel like I'm making a real difference in students' lives every day." 

• Read more about our Elementary and Secondary Teacher of the Year Finalists here.
• To learn more about how you can join Team SBISD, click here.