Maddalena Marrero-Benezet is a proud former student of Truman Elementary, La Quinta Middle School, and La Quinta High School. During her time in Desert Sands, she was deeply involved in school life, serving as ASB President at La Quinta Middle School, a member of Link Crew at LQHS, and remained in GATE/honors classes.

Maddalena shares, "Those years were foundational for me, not just academically, but in shaping my heart for service, leadership, and inclusion—values that continue to guide me today. I currently work in special education in the Central Bucks School District in Pennsylvania, and I’m soon graduating with a degree in special education. Thank you to every teacher, counselor, and school leader who helped shape my journey."

Most recently, she published a children’s book inspired by her nonverbal autistic son, titled This Is Jeffrey Jr.: A Story About Autism, Understanding, and Listening with Your Heart.

The book is written for early elementary students and helps children better understand autism, nonverbal communication, and the importance of empathy and inclusion. It’s the first in a series that will follow Jeffrey through his everyday adventures as a neurodivergent child.

This Is Jeffrey Jr. is available on Amazon.