My name is Melinda Hale, and I am honored to join St. John’s Lutheran Church as the new Director of the Early Childhood Education Center. I bring over 16 years of experience in education, including classroom teaching, teacher leadership, and school administration. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating nurturing, engaging environments where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn.
Outside of my professional life, my greatest joy is my family. I am a proud mom of four wonderful children: Shelby, who is 23, Braeden, 19, Connor, 17, and McKenna, 13. Our family loves spending time together, especially hunting for hidden treasures at local thrift stores (a love for thrifting that my children have definitely inherited from me!)
I have also recently discovered a love for sourdough bread baking, and I enjoy cooking big meals for family and friends… as long as someone else volunteers to do the dishes afterward.
I believe early childhood education is about much more than academics, it is about building strong relationships, fostering curiosity, and helping children grow in confidence, character, and faith. I am excited to partner with the families, staff, and church community here at St. John’s as we continue to support and guide our youngest learners.