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 8 years beginning as our Curriculum Coordinator in 2012. She came to MELA after directing a preschool in Knoxville, TN. She is blessed with two children who attend Southwest Florida Christian Academy here on 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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Wendy is our Administrative Coordinator. She has been on staff at McGregor since 2018, previously served as the Administrative Assistant and LifeGroup teacher in the Preschool Ministry. She, her husband Don and their daughter Charlotte relocated to Florida from Rhode Island in 2014 and became members at McGregor shortly after. They enjoy going to the movies, eating out and doing anything that allows them to spend time together.
Brooke is our Curriculum Coordinator. She joined the MELA team in 2016 as a substitute teacher, then became part-time, and eventually full-time. Watching the children grow and discover themselves, and a love for Jesus is her favorite part of the job. She is a new mom and enjoys taking care of her family.
Mona is our Receptionist and has worked with us for 10 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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Wendy Alpaio
Administrative Coordinator Brooke Mahan
Curriculum Coordinator Mona Cossairt
Receptionist and Lead Hugger |