MEET OUR STAFF

Cherie is our Director at MELA and has had the privilege of serving with us for 15 years. She’s well versed in all positions at MELA, as she started as a substitute then part time teacher, then became our Resource Coordinator, followed by our Administrative Secretary and is now our Director.  Cherie’s goal is to “assist in the development and education of young children in a safe, nurturing, Christian environment by encouraging each child to become aware of themselves as a special child of God.”  Her favorite part of working at MELA is seeing it all come together to strengthen the body of Christ.

Cherie Gaither
MELA Director

Julie is our Assistant Director.  She has been a part of the MELA family for 10 years beginning as our Curriculum Coordinator.  She came to MELA after directing a preschool in Knoxville, TN.  She is blessed with two children, her oldest is a student attending University of South Florida and her youngest attends Southwest Florida Christian Academy here on our campus.  She enjoys spending her free time with family. Her favorite part of working at MELA is watching the children learn and grow. "Each child develops new skills daily, and it's exciting to celebrate these accomplishments with them!"

Julie Beaird
​Assistant Director

​Allison is our Administrative Coordinator! She has worked in a preschool setting for just over 7 years now. She  been working at MELA for almost 3 years. I started here as a 3-year-old teacher, and I prayed daily for a position with support staff. God opened that door for me at His perfect timing. I grew up in Orlando, in a Christian home as a Pastors daughter. I moved to Fort Myers in February of 2020 when I married my husband! In my free time, I love spending time with my family, painting, and doing thinks that bring me joy. My favorite part about working at MELA is being able to show Christ's love daily to the kids, staff, and parents. ​

Allison Lunsford
Administrative Coordinator

​We welcome Joy as our Receptionist! She moved to Fort Myers from Ohio 6 yrs. ago.  There she directed an in-home childcare center for Christian Teachers' children.  She has also served as a Paraprofessional for children with special needs.  She has many years of administrative experience as well.  Some of her interests are going to the beach, walking, and riding her bike. She enjoys assisting the elderly at Shell Point with various needs. She is an avid Ohio State fan and enjoys watching the games with friends here in FM or attending events when back visiting. She believes family, friends, the MELA Team, and the children here are blessings in her life. "I look forward to coming to 'school' every day."

Joy Heins
Receptionist