About Us
The Shaping Academy has proudly served the Miami-Dade community for over 15 years. Founded by Dr. Yani Machado-Gonzalez, PhD, BCBA, LMHC, Shaping Academy was created out of a deep commitment to inclusive education and evidence-based practices that support the whole child. Dr. Machado-Gonzalez’s background in psychology, behavior analysis, and mental health laid the foundation for a school designed to meet students where they are and help them grow with confidence.
Rooted in inclusion, The Shaping Academy is dedicated to bridging learning differences and creating an environment where neurodiverse and neurotypical children learn, grow, and thrive together. What began as a vision to support children who learn differently has grown into a trusted educational community grounded in compassion, collaboration, and clinical expertise.
At Shaping Academy, we specialize in evidence-based educational strategies that support students with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and other developmental learning profiles. Through individualized instruction, social-emotional development, and skill-building, we empower every child to feel seen, valued, and confident as they work toward reaching their fullest potential with joy and purpose.
Our Vision
Our approach honors neurodiversity by recognizing that all brains learn differently and that these differences are strengths to be nurtured. We believe resilience is essential to success and a critical skill for our children to develop. By teaching students how to get back up when they face challenges, we help foster independence and confidence. Together, as a team, we model resilience and independence by guiding children through coping strategies, problem-solving, and life skills, empowering them to build strong self-esteem and a lifelong belief in their abilities.
Safe
Environment
A safe environment is essential for learning as it creates a foundation that allows children to thrive, explore, and develop to their full potential.
Welcoming Atmosphere
Creating a welcoming atmosphere requires intentional effort, empathy, and a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of each child. By prioritizing their well-being, fostering inclusivity, and providing engaging experiences, we can create an environment where children feel seen, heard, and eager to learn.
Sense Of Belonging
We encourage respect for individual differences and promote an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding. We have a commitment to nurturing positive relationships while providing a supportive environment.
Shaping Academy
Core Values
Strength
Happiness
Ambition
Perseverance
Individuality
Nuance
Graciousness
Our Staff
PhD, BCBA, LMHC
Head of School
Dr. Yanivis Machado-Gonzalez
Gaby Torres
Head Administrator
Rosa Cabrales
Teacher
Bianka Obrien
Teacher
Cloe Lopez
Teacher
Elisabetta Fella
Teacher
April Binsavale
Teaching A ssistant
Jahaira Alvarez
Teaching A ssistant
Ariana Torres
Teacher
Andrea Arias
Teacher
Rachel Montenegro
Teacher
Juliana Cogorno
Teaching A ssistant
Teaching A ssistant
Erika Chang
Kaitlyn Ortega
Teaching A ssistant
Brina Atehortua
Teacher
Teacher
Sophia Lynch
Gabriel De Los Reyes
Teacher
Alexandra Fonseca
Teaching A ssistant
Nicole Rubio
Teaching A ssistant
Allison Lampe
Teaching A ssistant
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum incorporates differentiated instruction and targeted supports for students with attention challenges, processing differences, and varied developmental profiles. Instruction is thoughtfully aligned with Florida’s state standards in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies, ensuring students receive a strong academic foundation while learning at their own pace.
We design meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that promote engagement, critical thinking, and real-world application. By blending structured academics with experiential learning, we foster academic confidence and social success, empowering students with diverse learning needs to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
