Episode 196: Supporting Public Education
During this episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast, Makayla is joined by a very special guest – her mom.
Makayla and Jocelyn had the privilege of teaching together during Makayla’s time in the classroom. Listen as they reflect on that special time in both of their lives.
The pair also speak to the role of educators, how teaching has changed, and the importance of programs like SPARK in every classroom.
This episode of the Find Your SPARK Podcast premieres on National Support Public Education Day. To every educator, you deserve all the support in the world.
#SHARETHESPARK
Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator
Makayla Wheeldon is the Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator at The SPARK Initiative, where she works to expand the organization’s reach through creative content, strategic outreach, and community engagement. She holds a degree in Communications and Psychology from the University of Central Florida and spent three years teaching Kindergarten and 1st Grade for Hillsborough County Public Schools — an experience that deepened her understanding of students’ diverse needs and inspired her to pursue broader impact beyond the classroom. Makayla is passionate about empowering youth to regulate their emotions through the understanding that feelings are not permanent. In her role at Spark, she leads efforts to strengthen brand visibility, build meaningful partnerships, and represent the organization across the mental health and education sectors — ensuring the message of innate resilience resonates with as many people as possible.