Meet our Staff
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Cherie is our Director at MELA and has had the privilege of serving with us for 14 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.
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Cherie Gaither
MELA Director |
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Julie is our Assistant Director. She has been a part of the MELA family for 9 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!"
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Julie Beaird
Assistant Director |
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Allison is our Administrative Coordinator! She has worked in a preschool setting for just over 6 years now. She been working at MELA for almost 2 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 Christs love daily to the kids, staff, and parents.
Elizabeth is our Curriculum Coordinator. She has been working with children for 10 years in a variety of capacities such as teaching, church ministry, and camps. She and her husband just welcomed their first child. Since their son’s birth they have enjoyed going to the park, eating ice cream, and enjoying being a new family. Elizabeth’s heart for children is for them to experience the love of Christ as they grow into who God plans them to be. She empowers children to embrace how God has made them and challenges them to reach their goals!
Mona is our Receptionist and has worked with us for 14 years. She’s had the opportunity to teach in the classroom, substitute and is now our receptionist. She’s passionate about her grandchildren, art and just people in general. Her favorite part of working at MELA is the love she gets and gives to the kids each morning and afternoon.
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Allison Lunsford
Administrative Coordinator Elizabeth Sheldon
Curriculum Coordinator Mona Cossairt
Receptionist and Lead Hugger |
