TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – A Fort Braden Elementary School teacher got the surprise of a lifetime when Addition Financial and WCTV walked into her classroom to name her November Teacher of the Month.
Whittnie Merlau, an ESE team lead and inclusion teacher, is known for creating a structured, supportive classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success.
According to her nominator, Merlau is the go-to person for guidance, strategies, and solutions, especially when navigating complex student needs. Her impact reaches far beyond academics.
In addition to teaching, Merlau coaches softball, leads yearbook development, organizes school-wide celebrations and honor roll events, coordinates field trips, and supports extracurricular activities that help students feel connected to their school community.
“I just genuinely love my kids, and I love my teammates,” Merlau said. “I do a lot of things on campus, but teaching is my absolute favorite part of it. I get to wake up and choose these kids every day.”
School leaders say Merlau changes lives by celebrating student successes and advocating for them every step of the way.
Congratulations to Whittnie Merlau!
Nominate the next Teacher of the Month
Every month, WCTV and Addition Financial visit a different classroom across the Big Bend and South Georgia.
Have a teacher who’s made an impact on your child’s life? Nominate them today by following this link!
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