About Me
I’m Gina Marie Maldonado, a proud and passionate 7th-grade teacher with a heart dedicated to transforming the lives of my students. Growing up in the vibrant North Bronx, my own educational challenges ignited a deep understanding of the hurdles many students face and fueled my unwavering commitment to education.
It was in high school that I truly discovered the life-changing power of education, inspiring me to pursue a degree in Human Services at BMCC. But my true calling came alive while working with young minds at Good Shepherd Services' after-school program. That experience propelled me into the NYC Teaching Fellows program and into my current role at P.S./M.S. 29, where I’ve found my home as an educator. Along the way, I earned a Master’s degree in Adolescent Special Education, giving me the tools to meet the needs of all learners and help them thrive.
In my classroom, I strive to create an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. My mission is to instill confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of knowledge in my students, building not just learners but a thriving, inclusive school community.
Philosophy of Education
I believe education is the foundation for a child’s growth, shaping them into thoughtful, respectful, and capable young adults. As a teacher, I’m committed to ensuring every student has access to quality education, while encouraging them to aim high and dream big.
Equity is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. I know that each student is unique, with their own strengths and challenges, and I strive to provide the tailored resources and support they need to succeed. Having experienced the public school system myself, I’ve walked in my students’ shoes and understand how crucial it is to have a teacher who truly believes in them.
Building genuine connections with my students is key. When students feel seen and supported, they’re more engaged and willing to take risks. My lessons are designed to spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking, helping students make meaningful connections between what they learn in the classroom and the world around them.
In my classroom, every student’s voice matters. My mission is to cultivate a nurturing environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.
Reflection
Teaching seventh and eighth-grade mathematics, particularly to students with individualized education plans, has been a deeply rewarding journey that has sharpened my ability to differentiate instruction and provide the tools every learner needs to succeed. My first year was especially challenging as I navigated personal hurdles, including four surgeries. However, these experiences revealed my resilience and ignited my passion for learning and exploring innovative teaching methods, particularly during our transition back to in-person learning post-pandemic.
In my second year, collaboration was my focus. Working with co-teachers, we developed strategies to optimize student outcomes. This transformational year allowed me to shift towards a student-led classroom, promoting peer learning through discussions and small group, data-driven instruction, while cultivating a culture of accountability among students.
My third year tested my abilities as I led the seventh-grade math class independently. Supported by three coaches, this year became the most rewarding of my career, with my students showing a 4% growth on their state exams—a testament to my development as an educator.
In my fourth year at P.S./M.S. 29, I feel prepared to embrace new challenges and contribute to our instructional leadership team. My roles in tutoring for Bronx Lacrosse and mentoring a new hire have broadened my perspective, allowing me to share insights while learning from others. I am excited to apply the growth and lessons I've gained to create an even more engaging and supportive environment for my students, empowering them to thrive both academically and personally.