Dalton Public Schools is proud to announce that Shea MacFadden has been named Brookwood School's 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year.

MacFadden teaches second grade, covering all content areas and STEM, at Brookwood School, where she has taught since August 2021. Her teaching career also includes four years at City Park School in Dalton and five years at Cedar Ridge Elementary in Whitfield County.

MacFadden said her mother, a teacher for more than 30 years, first inspired her to enter the profession.

"Watching her dedicate her time and care to her students, while raising three children on her own, showed me the positive impact a teacher can have on a child's life. She created character traits in my siblings and myself that will last a lifetime. I want to be able to be a similar example for any student that may not have the same kind of example at home."

MacFadden said her own experience with reading comprehension has given her empathy for students who face similar challenges.

"I understand how frustrating it can be to struggle with learning, and that experience has given me empathy for students who face similar difficulties. I want to help them build confidence, develop strong reading skills, and know that they are capable of overcoming obstacles with the right support and encouragement."

MacFadden said she considers how she treats her students her greatest contribution to education.

"I believe every child deserves to be treated with kindness, respect, and fairness. I want to pour into all students by encouraging them, supporting their growth, and treating every child equally. My goal is to create a classroom where each student feels valued, safe, and capable of succeeding."

In her classroom, MacFadden and her grade-level team incorporate STEM concepts into everyday lessons, encouraging students to think critically and solve real-world problems together.

"Students are encouraged to think critically, solve real-world problems, and work collaboratively. Instead of simply memorizing facts, students participate in hands-on activities and projects that allow them to apply what they have learned in meaningful ways."

Outside the classroom, MacFadden draws on her love of travel and her farm upbringing to help students connect lessons to the world around them, and she works to build strong partnerships between families and school.

"As a mother, I understand the importance of strong relationships between families and schools, and I want to partner with parents to support each child's academic and personal growth. By sharing these experiences and staying involved in school and community activities, I hope to build meaningful connections that positively impact my students and the community."

Dalton Public Schools congratulates Shea MacFadden on being named Brookwood School's 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year and thanks her for the dedication she shows to students each day.